Apple must ensure interoperability of iPhone with rivals, says European Commission

Apple must offer developers and businesses free interoperability with hardware and software features controlled by its operating systems, the European Commission said today, presenting preliminary conclusions from a probe into Apple’s iOS system under the new Digital Markets Act (DMA), the new regulatory code for the tech sector. 

The Commission launched a probe last September, quizzing Apple on how it planned to ensure its devices work with third-party smartwatches, headphones, and virtual reality headsets. The inquiry covers features such as notifications, device pairing, and connectivity, amid concerns Apple may restrict competition to favour its own products, such as AirPods and Apple Watch. 

The Commission has also proposed measures to enhance transparency regarding internal iOS features. 

“Under the DMA, Apple must provide developers and businesses with free and effective interoperability with hardware and software features controlled by its operating systems iOS and iPadOS, which are core platform services for which Apple was designated as gatekeeper,” a Commission press release stated.

The EC believes that opening iOS features to third-party devices will drive innovation and benefit users. CODE, a coalition of companies advocating for Open Digital Ecosystems, including Google, Meta, and Lenovo, supports this view. “We believe that hardware interoperability will drive innovation and increase competition,” CODE told Euronews. “It will give everyday users meaningful choice across devices, applications, and services, regardless of brand.” 

The Commission is now gathering feedback from third parties—citizens, companies, and organisations—on how best to ensure effective implementation, focusing on technicalities, timelines, and feasibility. Interested parties have until 9 January to respond to the public consultations. 

After analysing the feedback, the European Commission is expected to issue its final decision around March 2025. 

In response, Apple has released a report titled: “It’s Getting Personal: How Abuse of the DMA’s Interoperability Mandate Could Expose Your Private Information.” The company argues that sharing the inner workings of its systems with competitors could stifle innovation. “Apple is the only company being forced to share its innovations in this way with everyone else, including those who do not share its commitment to user privacy,” the company said to Euronews. 

In June the Commission issued preliminary findings indicating that Apple may have breached EU competition law, this time over excessive fees linked to its App Store.