European Commission targets Apple for DMA compliance
The following development marks the first formal use of the DMA against a major tech company.
The European Commission is taking significant steps to ensure Apple aligns its practices with the Digital Markets Act (DMA). That initiative involves specifying the actions Apple must undertake to enhance interoperability with other products, marking a pivotal moment as it represents the first formal use of this DMA tool to engage with the tech giant.
The move reflects the Commission’s commitment to fostering a competitive digital market within the EU, particularly in light of ongoing discussions regarding Apple’s role in this landscape. To this end, the Commission has initiated two key proceedings focused on interoperability issues concerning Apple’s iOS operating system.
The first aims to simplify the connection process for non-Apple devices, such as smartwatches and headphones, enabling them to work seamlessly with iPhones and iPads. That includes enhancing features like Bluetooth pairing and notifications. The second proceeding examines how Apple interacts with developers seeking interoperability, aiming to establish a fair and efficient process that encourages innovation while addressing potential privacy and security concerns.
The European Commission has established a clear timeline for these proceedings, setting a six-month deadline for investigations into Apple’s compliance with the DMA. Should Apple fail to meet the specified requirements, the Commission may impose fines or restrictions on the company’s operations in certain regions or technology sectors. Moreover, it follows a previous mandate requiring Apple to address competition concerns related to access to near-field communication (NFC) technology for contactless payments, highlighting the company’s ongoing scrutiny.