Apple has been ordered by EU antitrust regulators to open its closed ecosystem to competitors, detailing compliance expectations according to the bloc's landmark rules. This directive comes six months after the European Commission emphasized the importance of adherence to the Digital Markets Act (DMA), aimed at curtailing the influence of Big Tech.
The first mandate requires Apple to grant rival smartphone, headphone, and virtual reality headset manufacturers access to its technology and mobile operating system, facilitating seamless connectivity with iPhones and iPads.
The second mandate outlines a specific process and timeline for Apple to address interoperability requests from app developers.
Apple criticized the EU's orders, claiming they would negatively impact users while benefiting its competitors. The company stated that the regulations would encumber its innovative capabilities in Europe and compel it to provide new features at no charge to companies that do not adhere to the same standards. Apple expressed its intent to engage with the European Commission to clarify its concerns on behalf of users.
EU antitrust chief Teresa Ribera remarked that these decisions are aimed at implementing the law and providing regulatory certainty for both Apple and developers. Failure to comply with the orders may result in an investigation, potentially leading to fines up to 10% of Apple's global annual sales.