Apple has filed an appeal with the European General Court in Luxembourg, contesting a directive from EU antitrust regulators under the Digital Markets Act (DMA). The directive mandates how Apple should make its iOS operating system compatible with products from competing tech companies. The EU has established interoperability rules to curb the market power of large tech firms. Last March, the European Commission informed Apple that it must take steps to ensure its iOS devices are more compatible with competitors' products, such as apps and hardware like headphones and VR headsets.
Apple is required to open certain parts of its operating system, traditionally exclusive to its products, to software developers and device manufacturers. This includes allowing notifications to appear on competitors' wearable technology. Apple appealed the decision on May 30, claiming the EU's interoperability requirements are flawed and force Apple to share sensitive information, potentially compromising user security. Apple argues that these demands threaten the seamless user experience it offers and create an unreasonable, costly, and innovation-stifling process.
The EU Commission has stated that its decision aligns with the Digital Markets Act and is prepared to defend it in court. Companies found violating these rules could face fines of up to 10% of their global annual revenue or, in extreme cases, be ordered to divest parts of their business.
