Jordan Bevan
The European Commission has initiated two crucial specification proceedings aimed at guiding Apple Inc. towards full compliance with the Digital Markets Act (DMA).
“Today is the first time we use specification proceedings under the DMA to guide Apple towards effective compliance with its interoperability obligations through constructive dialogue,” EU antitrust chief Margrethe Vestager said.
The first proceeding will focus on the interoperability of various iOS connectivity features crucial for connected devices such as smartwatches, headphones, and virtual reality headsets. The Commission is set to detail how Apple should enhance the integration of these devices with iOS, ensuring functionalities like notifications, device pairing, and overall connectivity are effectively managed.
The second proceeding addresses the procedures Apple has established for handling interoperability requests from developers and third-party businesses. The Commission emphasizes the need for a transparent, timely, and equitable process, ensuring that all developers have a clear and predictable path to achieving interoperability with Apple’s platforms. This measure aims to foster innovation and ensure that developers are not hindered by opaque or unfair practices.
The Commission plans to complete these specification proceedings within six months, providing Apple with preliminary findings and detailed guidance on necessary measures. A summary of these findings will be published to solicit feedback from third parties, further enhancing the transparency of the process. While these proceedings are ongoing, they do not preclude the Commission from taking additional action, including the possibility of imposing fines or other penalties for non-compliance with the DMA.
In September 2023, the Commission designated Apple’s App Store, iOS, and Safari as core platform services under the DMA. Following this, Apple was required to meet all DMA obligations for iOS by March 2024, with iPadOS compliance due by October 2024.
Comments
Loading…