Apple Appeals EU Interoperability Order Under DMA

Apple has initiated legal proceedings against the European Commission, contesting the order under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) that mandates greater interoperability within its ecosystem. The Commission’s decision, reached after a six-month consultation period, requires Apple to allow third-party developers to integrate their products with the iPhone and iPad platforms. This includes enabling non-Apple devices, such as headphones and smartwatches, to connect seamlessly with Apple products.

Apple’s appeal, filed with the EU’s General Court, asserts that the Commission’s requirements are unreasonable, costly, and would hinder innovation. The company maintains that opening its ecosystem to external parties, including competitors like Meta and Samsung, would compromise user privacy and security. Apple has characterized these third parties as “data-hungry companies” seeking access to sensitive user information.

The European Commission, however, contends that its interoperability measures are fully compatible with both EU privacy and security standards. Officials argue that Apple will retain full control over its devices while ensuring fair competition and consumer choice in the digital market. The Commission has emphasized that its demands do not jeopardize Apple’s data protection obligations.

This legal battle highlights the ongoing tension between regulatory efforts to promote competition and the tech industry’s focus on privacy and proprietary control. The outcome of this case will have significant implications for the enforcement of the DMA and the broader landscape of digital regulation in the European Union.