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EU Mandates Apple to Enhance Interoperability in Compliance with Digital Markets Act
On Wednesday, European Union antitrust regulators issued a directive to Apple, mandating the tech giant to provide greater access to its closed ecosystem for competing companies. This directive is aligned with the EU’s landmark Digital Markets Act (DMA), aimed at curbing the dominance of major technology firms.
This latest action follows six months of specification proceedings initiated by the European Commission to ensure Apple adheres to the DMA, which seeks to promote fair competition within the digital market.
Key Conditions of the EU Orders
The first order from the EU compels Apple to grant rival manufacturers of smartphones, headphones, and virtual reality headsets access to its proprietary technology and mobile operating system. This is intended to facilitate seamless connectivity with Apple devices such as iPhones and iPads, thereby enhancing interoperability.
The second order elaborates on a specific process and timeline that Apple must adhere to in responding to requests from app developers for interoperability access.
Apple’s Response to the EU Directive
In response to the EU’s mandate, Apple criticized the ruling, asserting it could negatively impact users while benefiting competitors. The company expressed concerns that increased regulatory constraints would hinder its ability to innovate for European customers.
“Today’s decisions encase us in red tape, impeding Apple’s capacity to deliver advancements to users in Europe while obligating us to share our new features at no cost with companies that do not operate under the same regulations,” Apple stated in a communication.
Apple emphasized its commitment to continue engaging with the European Commission to communicate its reservations about the impact on both its products and consumers.
Regulatory Implications
EU antitrust chief Teresa Ribera highlighted the rationale behind the decision, stating, “With this ruling, we are merely executing the law and offering regulatory clarity for both Apple and developers.”
Failure to comply with the EU orders could result in a thorough investigation into Apple’s operations, which could lead to penalties as severe as 10 percent of the company’s annual global revenue.
Source
www.gadgets360.com