competition

The European Commission has issued two decisions under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), mandating Apple to grant third-party developers access to key iOS functionalities. These requirements aim to enhance interoperability, provide greater consumer choice, and foster competition in the digital market.

Expanded Interoperability Requirements

Under the new measures, Apple must allow third-party developers full access to the iOS notification system, background execution rights, and other core system functions. Previously, these capabilities were exclusive to Apple’s ecosystem, benefiting only its own products such as AirPods and Apple Watch. The European Commission’s decision will enable external manufacturers to integrate their devices more seamlessly with iPhones and iPads.

Key functionalities that must be opened include:

Full access to iOS notifications for third-party applications and devices.
Background execution rights for improved multitasking.
Automatic connection features similar to Apple’s proprietary pairing technology for wireless accessories.
The ability for external developers to create alternatives to AirDrop and AirPlay.
Automated Wi-Fi network information sharing and high-speed peer-to-peer Wi-Fi connections.
Enabling NFC access for payment card transactions.

These changes are expected to significantly improve the functionality of third-party wireless headphones, smartwatches, and other connected devices on iPhones. The Commission’s decision ensures that these capabilities must be provided free of charge to all compatible devices.

Changes to Apple’s Interoperability Request Process

In addition to expanding interoperability, the European Commission has ordered Apple to improve the transparency and efficiency of its interoperability request process. Developers must receive:

Timely access to technical documentation on features not yet available to third parties.
Clear communication and structured timelines for interoperability requests.
Simultaneous access to frameworks and APIs for third parties at the same time as Apple’s own devices, preventing delays in adoption.

These measures aim to create a fairer development environment, ensuring that Apple does not retain exclusive access to new features before third-party developers can implement them.

Implementation Timeline and Scope

The Commission’s ruling is legally binding, and Apple must implement the specified measures within the outlined timeframe. The new interoperability features are expected to become fully available with the release of iOS 19 in 2026, though a beta version may be introduced in late 2025. However, these requirements currently apply only within the European Union.

Apple’s Response and Privacy Concerns

Apple has raised concerns regarding the impact of these decisions on its innovation process and user privacy. In a statement to 9to5Mac, the company argued that being forced to open its ecosystem could slow down technological advancements for European users and compromise security.

“Today’s decisions drag us into bureaucratic processes, slowing down Apple’s ability to innovate for European users and forcing us to give away our new features for free to companies that do not have to follow the same rules. This is bad for our products and for our European customers. We will continue working with the European Commission to help them understand our concerns on behalf of our users.”

Apple also warned that allowing third-party access to iOS notifications could lead to security vulnerabilities. The company fears that external firms could potentially transmit user notifications in an unencrypted format, bypassing Apple’s built-in security protections.

Commission’s Perspective

Teresa Ribera, Executive Vice-President for Clean, Just and Competitive Transition, defended the ruling:

“Today’s decisions mark the first time the Commission outlines concrete measures for a gatekeeper to comply with the Digital Markets Act. Companies operating in the EU, irrespective of their place of incorporation, must comply with EU rules, including the Digital Markets Act. With these decisions, we are simply implementing the law and providing regulatory certainty both to Apple and to developers.”

Henna Virkkunen, Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security, and Democracy, highlighted the importance of interoperability for competition:

“The EU puts innovation and choice at the centre of its policies. Interoperability is one of the most important tools in making this happen. The Digital Markets Act opens up opportunities in the digital market to companies, especially startups and SMEs, while preserving the gatekeepers’ space for innovation.”

Next Steps

Apple is legally required to comply with these measures within the timeframe set by the Commission. Its compliance will be closely monitored, with potential penalties if it fails to adhere to the DMA’s obligations. The decision marks a significant step in enforcing digital market regulations and ensuring a more competitive and open ecosystem for European consumers and developers alike.