EU Seeks Feedback on Plan to Open Up iOS to Competition

European Commission Outlines Interoperability Demands for Apple

The European Commission has released preliminary proposals detailing how Apple must comply with interoperability stipulations stemming from the Digital Markets Act (DMA). Feedback on these proposed measures, covering areas such as iOS notifications, data transfer, and device setup, is being solicited until January 9, 2025.

Regulatory Timelines and Scope

EU regulators are scheduled to finalize decisions regarding the specific measures Apple will be required to implement, along with corresponding deadlines, by around mid-March. These requirements are designed to foster competition by allowing third-party services to integrate with dominant platforms.

The regulation directly impacts Apple’s iOS, iPadOS, App Store, and Safari browser. However, the current proceedings specifically concentrate on the mobile operating systems, iOS and iPadOS.

Specification Proceedings and Consultations

In September, the Commission initiated two “specification proceedings” to define the application of interoperability rules to Apple’s core platforms. The preliminary findings were published on Thursday, launching two consultations. One focuses on interoperability between iOS and connected devices, while the other concerns requests for interoperability with iOS and iPadOS.

Key Interoperability Requirements

The proposed measures aim to ensure “effective interoperability” across several key areas. These include iOS Notifications, background execution capabilities, and automatic audio switching functionality.

Furthermore, requirements extend to data transfer features, encompassing Wi-Fi connection, AirDrop, AirPlay, wireless file transfer services, and media casting. Features related to device setup and configuration are also included.

Improving the Interoperability Request Process

The Commission also seeks improvements to Apple’s existing request-based process for third-party interoperability access with iOS and iPadOS. This is the focus of the second proceeding.

Proposed actions include increased transparency regarding iOS and iPadOS features currently exclusive to Apple. This would involve providing information on libraries, frameworks, and daemons. Support for developers seeking interoperability is also envisioned, enhancing the process’s effectiveness and transparency, alongside future-proofing interoperability through design principles.

Apple’s Response and Concerns

In response, Apple spokesman Tom Parker submitted a five-page report expressing concerns that misuse of DMA interoperability requirements could compromise user privacy. He warned that “Data-hungry companies across the globe may weaponize interoperability.”

Apple’s lobbying document specifically criticized Meta, alleging that the social media company is submitting numerous and excessively broad DMA access requests.

Parker emphasized that the unique user experience offered by Apple products is a result of significant investment in innovation. He stated that forcing Apple to share its innovations could stifle future development, arguing that companies should compete by creating compatible products without being compelled to reveal their ideas to rivals.

Protecting User Privacy

Apple maintains that it has consistently provided developers with access to tools within iOS and iPadOS. However, the company stresses the “incredibly important” need for interoperability to be implemented responsibly, prioritizing user safety.

“Without the right protections, giving third parties access to parts of users’ devices could open up ways for bad actors to steal or expose their personal information,” Apple cautioned.

Seeking Technical Feedback

The Commission’s consultation on the first proceeding requests technical assessments of the proposed measures’ effectiveness, including practicality, completeness, and feasibility, as well as feedback on the proposed timelines for Apple.

The second consultation seeks input on timelines and the overall effectiveness of the measures in achieving their objectives. Suggestions for improvement are also welcomed.

Next Steps and Regulatory Decisions

The Commission will thoroughly evaluate all feedback received from stakeholders and Apple. This input may lead to adjustments in the proposed measures, ultimately informing the Commission’s final, legally binding decisions regarding Apple’s compliance with the DMA.