The European Union has warned Apple Inc. to align its iPhone and iPad operating systems with new digital antitrust regulations or face substantial fines, according to a Bloomberg report.
Under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), the EU mandates that Apple enhance interoperability with rival technologies. The company has been given six months to comply with these new laws, which aim to ensure that other companies can access key features of Apple’s operating systems.
Margrethe Vestager, the EU competition chief, highlighted the significance of interoperability, stating, “Today is the first time we use specification proceedings under the DMA to guide Apple towards effective compliance with its interoperability obligations.”
In addition to the interoperability requirements, Apple is also facing scrutiny over its App Store rules, which could lead to further fines.
Earlier this month, Apple introduced its iPhone 16 with incremental hardware updates and upcoming AI advancements. However, some features, including Apple Intelligence and SharePlay Screen Sharing, may be delayed in the EU due to the DMA’s interoperability requirements.