The European Commission on Tuesday issued two legally binding decisions against Apple under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), setting out the steps the company must take to comply with its obligation to make its gadgets compatible with other devices.
The first set of measures covers nine iOS features primarily used to connect devices such as smartwatches, headphones, or TVs. The measures aim to give device makers and app developers better access to iPhone features that interact with such devices, such as displaying notifications on smartwatches, faster data transfers, and simplified setup including pairing. It also involves giving connected devices such as third-party smartwatches full access to the iOS notification system, as well as background privileges similar to those available to the Apple Watch when used with an iPhone.
Headphone makers will be given access to system features that AirPods support, such as automatic pairing with touchless connection and automatic audio switching. Other connected devices will also be able to perform equivalent functions of system services, such as AirDrop and AirPlay.
The implementation of these measures is expected to enable connected devices of all brands to work better with iPhone. Device makers will have new opportunities to bring innovative products to market, improving the user experience of European consumers. The measures will ensure that these innovations are carried out with full respect for the privacy and security of users, as well as the integrity of Apple’s operating systems, the European Commission said in a statement.
The second set of measures aims to increase transparency in Apple’s work with developers. It includes greater access to technical documentation on features not yet available to third parties, timely communication and updates, and more predictable turnaround times for compatibility requests. These measures will enable developers to offer European consumers a wider range of innovative services and hardware compatible with iPhone and iPad.
Apple has criticized the EU’s decision. In a statement provided to 9to5Mac, the company said the decision adds red tape, slowing its ability to innovate for users in Europe and forcing companies that aren’t subject to the same requirements to provide new features for free. “This is bad for our products and our European users. We will continue to work with the European Commission to further clarify our concerns on behalf of our users,” Apple said.
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