The European Union’s antitrust regulators mandated on Wednesday that Apple must open its closed ecosystem to competitors, detailing the steps necessary for compliance with the bloc’s significant regulations, and cautioning that failure to comply could trigger investigations and penalties.
This action by the European Commission follows the initiation of specification proceedings six months ago, aimed at ensuring the iPhone manufacturer adheres to the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which is designed to limit the influence of large technology firms.
The first directive from the EU requires Apple to permit competing smartphone, headphone, and virtual reality headset manufacturers to access its technology and mobile operating system, facilitating seamless connectivity with iPhones and iPads.
The second directive outlines a comprehensive process and timeline for Apple to address interoperability requests from application developers.
Apple expressed strong opposition to the EU’s directives, arguing that they would disadvantage users while benefiting its competitors.
In a statement emailed to the press, the company asserted, “Today’s decisions wrap us in red tape, slowing down Apple’s ability to innovate for users in Europe and forcing us to give away our new features for free to companies who don’t have to play by the same rules.”
Apple also stated, “It’s bad for our products and for our European users. We will continue to work with the European Commission to help them understand our concerns on behalf of our users.”
Teresa Ribera, the EU antitrust chief, responded to Apple’s criticism, emphasizing that the commission’s actions are designed to enforce the law while providing regulatory clarity for both Apple and developers.
Should regulators determine that Apple has not adhered to the order, the company could face an investigation that might lead to fines of up to 10 percent of its global annual revenue.
© Thomson Reuters 2025
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