Brussels (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – US tech giant Apple has called on the European Union to revoke the landmark Digital Markets Act (DMA), which it believes has unfairly targeted the company since its implementation in early 2023, and to introduce a new regulation that it deems more appropriate.
The American multinational technology company’s request occurs as the European Commission examines the law, a comprehensive set of rules aimed at limiting the influence of Big Tech companies. This marks its first assessment of the Act’s effectiveness and how well it can adapt to new technologies, such as artificial intelligence. The commission had invited stakeholder feedback until September 24.
Apple, the largest phone maker, stated that EU users are facing delays in accessing new features and are at greater risk of privacy and security issues because of the DMA. iPhone maker requested the commission to reevaluate how the law impacts EU consumers of its products, asserting it will keep working to introduce new features while complying with legal standards.
How does the DMA affect Apple’s product feature launches?
The company stated that due to legal requirements, it has had to delay the launch of multiple features in the EU, such as iPhone Mirroring to Mac and Live Translation with AirPods, citing engineering difficulties.
The tech giant, which sells millions of devices and services in the EU, stated that location-based features in Maps have been delayed there because the DMA mandates that Apple ensure certain features are compatible with non-Apple products or third-party developers before their release.
What privacy and security risks does Apple highlight?
In June, Apple revised its App Store rules and fees in the EU to adhere to the European Union’s antitrust mandate. The DMA requires large tech companies to open their platforms to competitors.
The iPhone manufacturer stated that it has not found a way to comply with the European Commission’s demands without risking user data, and it rejected its suggested protections.
“It’s become clear that we can’t solve every problem the DMA creates,”
Apple said.
“Over time, it’s become clear that the DMA isn’t helping markets. It’s making it harder to do business in Europe.”
Apple stated that this has created a “riskier, less intuitive” app experience for EU users, as sideloading and alternative marketplaces now pose threats like scams, malware, and pornography apps that were formerly prohibited on the App Store.
What fines has Apple faced under the EU’s DMA?
In 2023 and 2024, the European Commission recognised seven gatekeepers under the DMA, including Apple. Apple and Meta were fined in April for non-compliance with the DMA. The EU Commission investigated and identified non-compliance, leading to a €500 million fine for Apple. The investigation revealed that Apple was hindering developers from communicating freely with consumers and was directing them to alternative channels for offers and content.
The investigation revealed that app developers who distribute their apps through Apple’s App Store are unable to inform customers at no cost about alternative options outside the App Store.
