The European Commission has released draft proposals outlining how Apple must comply with interoperability requirements under the Digital Markets Act (DMA). The proposals target key areas such as iOS notifications, data transfer, and device setup, inviting feedback by January 9, 2025.
EU regulators have until mid-March to finalize measures that will require Apple to allow access for rivals. The DMA aims to foster competition by enabling third-party services to integrate with dominant platforms like Apple's iOS, iPadOS, App Store, and Safari browser. The current focus is on Apple's mobile operating systems, iOS and iPadOS.
Proposed Interoperability Measures
The EU is proposing measures to achieve “effective interoperability” in the following areas:
- iOS Notifications
- Background execution
- Automatic audio switching
- Data transfer features (high-bandwidth p2p wi-fi, Airdrop, Airplay, wireless file transfer, media casting)
- Device setup and configuration (proximity pairing, automatic Wi-Fi, NFC controller)
Improving the Request Process
The European Commission also seeks to improve how third parties request interoperability with iOS and iPadOS, focusing on:
- Transparency around iOS and iPadOS features currently exclusive to Apple
- Support for developers seeking interoperability
- Improved communication and feedback on requests
- A conciliation process to address disagreements
- Measures to futureproof interoperability
- Clarity on the timelines for Apple to act on interoperability requests
Apple's Response
Apple responded with a five-page report, warning that DMA interoperability requirements could harm user privacy. They stated that "Data-hungry companies across the globe may weaponize interoperability." The company also criticized Meta for making overly broad access requests. Apple argues that forcing them to share innovations will hurt competition.
"The magical experiences people love about Apple products are made possible because of the time, talent and capital the company dedicates to creating products that work right out of the box. These processes will hurt innovation...Apple is the only company being forced to share its innovations in this way..." - Apple
Apple claims it often provides developers with access to the same tools it uses, emphasizing that interoperability must prioritize user protection. They argue that giving third parties access without the proper safeguards could expose users' data to malicious actors.
Seeking Feedback
The Commission is seeking technical feedback on the proposed measures, including:
- The effectiveness of the interoperability measures between iOS and connected devices
- The completeness of the measures
- The feasibility of implementation
- Proposed timelines for Apple
They also want feedback on whether the measures achieve their objective, and how to improve them if necessary.
The Commission will assess the feedback from Apple and other interested parties and may adjust the proposed measures before making a final decision.
