Apple Lobbies Against EU’s Digital Markets Act, Claiming Interoperability Requirements Hinder User Privacy and Delay Features

The Digital Markets Act (DMA) implemented by the European Union three years ago aims to curb anti-competitive practices of major tech platforms, primarily by facilitating user transitions between platforms and data mobility among devices and applications.

Recently, Apple voiced opposition against this regulation, claiming that it delays the launch of certain features in the EU due to stringent compliance requirements. The company contends that these rules negatively impact Apple customers in the EU by exposing them to new risks and limiting choices.

In a blog post, Apple also expressed concern over the DMA’s interoperability mandate, arguing it poses challenges in maintaining user privacy while ensuring compatibility with third-party hardware and software. The company claims it has proposed modifications to protect user data, but these have been rejected by the European Commission.

According to the EU’s regulatory body, under the DMA, Apple is prohibited from sharing features with its users until they are available on other companies’ products, and any premature sharing could result in fines and potential withdrawal of products from the EU market.

Apple’s stance comes after the EU imposed a fine exceeding $550 million on the company for violating DMA rules concerning app payments within Apple’s ecosystem. The company has appealed this decision.

Furthermore, Apple asserts that the DMA’s requirement for users to install apps from third-party stores and use alternative payment mechanisms increases risks of scams, malware, and fraud for its users.

In a statement, the European Commission spokesperson Thomas Regnier explained, “Apple has contested every aspect of the DMA since its implementation…This undermines Apple’s claims of being fully cooperative with the Commission.” Regnier emphasized that the DMA does not necessitate lowering privacy or security standards; it merely seeks to provide users more choices and level the competitive field in the European market.