# EU Urges Apple to Further Modify iOS Functionality
In a notable effort to reduce anti-competitive behavior among leading technology firms, the European Union (EU) has heightened its examination of Apple’s iOS operating system. Following the enactment of the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which created a framework to encourage fair competition, the European Commission has called upon Apple to guarantee “effective interoperability” of iOS with alternative platforms. This request could result in significant alterations to Apple’s ecosystem operations.
## Overview of the Digital Markets Act
The Digital Markets Act, created to tackle the dominance of major technology firms, outlines a number of obligations for entities classified as “gatekeepers.” These obligations involve ensuring equitable access to services, encouraging interoperability, and avoiding self-preferencing behaviors. Apple, as a prominent tech corporation, is notably affected by this legislation, leading it to adjust certain components of iOS to align with EU requirements.
## New Expectations from the European Commission
As reported by Bloomberg, the European Commission has specified particular modifications it anticipates from Apple in a document associated with ongoing antitrust probes. Key expectations include:
1. **Improved Access for Third-Party Developers**: Apple is encouraged to grant third-party developers access to technologies currently reserved for Apple. This encompasses allowing third-party apps to operate in the background, a capability presently limited to Apple’s own applications.
2. **Interoperability with Non-Apple Accessories**: The EU is advocating for simpler pairing and control of non-Apple accessories, such as smartwatches and headphones, with iOS devices. This change aims to create a more inclusive ecosystem for users who might prefer devices made by different manufacturers.
3. **Utilization of Features like AirPlay and AirDrop**: The Commission is pushing for third-party applications to access functionalities such as AirPlay and AirDrop, which are currently confined to Apple devices. This would enable a more cohesive experience across various platforms.
Apple is required to reply to these expectations by January 9, 2025. In preparation for these changes, Apple has released a document voicing its worries about the potential effects of the DMA on user privacy and security.
## Apple’s Reaction and Concerns
In its reaction to the European Commission, Apple has expressed discontent with the DMA, arguing that the stipulations might jeopardize the security of its ecosystem. The company claims that allowing third-party developers access to its technologies could pose risks to user data. Apple particularly raised issues regarding Meta, which has made several appeals for access to Apple’s technologies to enhance its products, including the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses and Meta Quest headsets.
Apple’s document argues that granting such access could enable Meta to gather sensitive user information, such as messages, emails, and other personal data. The company insists that its existing policies are intended to safeguard user privacy by restricting access to sensitive information.
## Possible Consequences for Non-Compliance
If Apple does not adhere to the EU’s expectations, the European Commission may commence a formal probe into the company’s operations. This could lead to significant penalties, including fines reaching up to 10% of Apple’s global annual revenue. The stakes are considerable, as non-compliance could affect Apple’s financial health and its standing in the global marketplace.
Alongside the EU’s examination, Apple is encountering comparable pressures in other jurisdictions. Recently, a Brazilian regulator determined that Apple must open its ecosystem to third-party developers, a ruling the company has contested. However, this may result in further changes to Apple’s operations in Brazil, potentially necessitating the sideloading of applications.
## Conclusion
The EU’s call for Apple to enhance interoperability and open its iOS platform to third-party developers represents a substantial change in the regulatory climate for tech giants. As the company deals with these challenges, the outcomes could transform how iOS operates and how users engage with their devices. The ongoing negotiations highlight the larger trend of increased regulatory oversight aimed at promoting competition and safeguarding consumer interests in the digital era. As the deadline looms, attention will be focused on Apple to observe its response to these unprecedented requests from the European Commission.
