The European Commission has initiated proceedings to ensure that Apple complies with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) interoperability obligations as a designated gatekeeper, giving the company six months to comply with specified measures or face significant fines. Specifically focusing on iOS connectivity for connected devices, the commission aims to establish effective interoperability allowing non-Apple devices to pair with iPhones and address developers’ requests for third-party interoperability with iOS and iPadOS. EU competition chief Margrethe Vestager emphasized the importance of fair and open digital markets and constructive dialogue with Apple to meet the needs of businesses. Previous breaches of DMA rules by Apple, such as restricting developers from informing users of alternative payment options, led to changes including opening iOS and iPadOS to third-party app stores and providing developers access to NFC technology. However, further non-compliance could result in an investigation and fines amounting to 10 percent of Apple’s global annual revenue.
