EU antitrust regulators have initiated proceedings to ensure Apple complies with the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which requires the company to open its ecosystem to competitors, Reuters reports.
The European Commission is focusing on two areas. The first proceeding focuses on ensuring interoperability for iOS devices like smartwatches, headphones, and virtual reality headsets, to connect and function with iOS. The second proceeding addresses how Apple handles third-party developer requests seeking access to its iOS and iPadOS systems. The EU wants to ensure that Apple opens up its ecosystem to competitors in a fair and transparent way, allowing competitors and developers to build applications and devices that can integrate smoothly with Apple’s platforms.
Apple expressed willingness to cooperate but warned that loosening its ecosystem could pose security risks for users. Apple could face fines of up to 10% of its annual global revenue if it fails to comply. The proceedings are expected to conclude within six months.
