Apple Contesting EU’s New DMA Regulations
A few months ago, the European Commission unveiled new DMA regulations that Apple must adhere to throughout the iOS 26 phase. Following the expansion of the iPhone ecosystem to include third-party marketplaces, third-party payments, and other modifications, the EU is now requesting that Apple enhance interoperability between its software and third-party devices.
Here are some of the adjustments Apple will need to implement in iOS 26:
– Non-Apple smartwatches should be capable of receiving push notifications, including images, and enabling users to respond to them. This issue was raised by the creator of Pebble during the announcement of his two new watches.
– The connection procedure for non-Apple devices, such as headphones and smartwatches, needs to be more user-friendly.
– Virtual reality headsets ought to enjoy improved and quicker data connections with iPhones.
– Integration of alternative solutions to AirDrop and AirPlay services is required.
Apple has now contested the European Commission’s new demands regarding the DMA, appealing the decision at the end of last month.
“At Apple, we create our technology to operate harmoniously together, ensuring it provides the unique experience that our users cherish and anticipate from our products. The EU’s interoperability standards jeopardize that foundation, while instituting a process that is unreasonable, expensive, and hinders innovation,” a spokesperson for the company stated to the Wall Street Journal. Apple also deemed the rules “seriously flawed,” contending that the company might need to divulge sensitive information to competitors, which could present “security risks to European customers.”
The spokesperson continued: “Companies have already sought access to our users’ most private data—from the contents of their notifications to a comprehensive history of every saved WiFi network on their device—granting them the capacity to access personal information that even Apple doesn’t view. We are appealing these rulings on their behalf, and to uphold the top-tier experience our European customers expect.”
While the European Commission has yet to respond, it seems improbable that Apple will be able to evade these new regulations or expand upon existing legislation.
BGR will keep monitoring the latest DMA requirements that could be implemented during the iOS 26 phase.
