EU Mandates Greater Interoperability for Apple Devices
Apple is being compelled by the European Union (EU) to make significant changes to its iOS ecosystem, allowing third-party smartwatches, headphones, and speakers to access several exclusive Apple iOS Features. The directive comes as part of the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which seeks to enhance competition and interoperability in digital markets.
The European Commission has detailed specific requirements for Apple to comply with, including two main sets of measures. The first involves simplifying the process for developers to integrate their applications with Apple’s software, making it easier for third-party companies to work within the iOS environment. The second, which is of particular interest to iPhone and iPad users, mandates that unlock nine proprietary Apple iOS Features for other platforms. According to the EU ruling, the majority of these changes must be in place by the end of 2025 at the latest.
Key iOS Features Opening to Competitors
One of the most notable changes involves iOS notifications, which will now be accessible to third-party smartwatches. This means that devices other than the Apple Watch will be able to display and interact with notifications in the same way. Additionally, a new provision will ensure that apps can run in the background without disruption, allowing third-party gadgets to continuously gather data such as weather updates and news.
Apple will also be required to extend its SharePlay feature and automatic audio-switching capabilities to external manufacturers. This means that third-party earphones and headsets will be able to seamlessly switch audio sources—such as transitioning from listening to music on an iPad to answering a call on an iPhone—without requiring AirPods. Furthermore, Apple must allow other companies to utilize the same high-bandwidth iPhone connections currently reserved for Apple-exclusive devices. This could improve performance for third-party VR headsets and other smart devices.
Additional improvements include enabling non-Apple platforms to exchange data via AirDrop and AirPlay when connected to Apple devices. Apple will also need to support alternative services that perform similar functions to AirDrop and AirPlay. Other expected enhancements for third-party devices include easier setup for iPhone users without requiring a companion app, automatic Wi-Fi network connections through iPhones, and the ability to receive contactless payment credentials via NFC transfer.
Consequences and Apple’s Response
These mandates are legally binding, and Apple must implement the changes to comply with the DMA. Failure to do so could lead to a non-compliance investigation by the EU, potentially resulting in significant penalties. Apple faces fines of up to ten percent of its annual global revenue if it is found to be in violation of the DMA regulations.
Apple iOS Features has the right to challenge the ruling through judicial review, and opposition is anticipated. In a statement to The Verge, Apple argued that the EU’s directives are “bad for our products and for our European users.” Despite Apple’s resistance, the EU remains confident that these regulations will break down the barriers of Apple’s closed ecosystem, enabling greater interoperability across platforms and providing consumers with more choices in the digital marketplace.
