The European Union has taken a significant step towards promoting competition and innovation in the tech industry by ordering Apple to open up its exclusive iOS features to third-party devices. The EU's guidelines, outlined in the Digital Markets Act (DMA), require Apple to make nine iOS-exclusive connectivity features available to other platforms by the end of 2025.

The move is seen as a major breakthrough for users who want to use devices from other manufacturers with their iPhones and iPads. Currently, Apple's closed ecosystem limits the functionality of third-party devices, forcing users to purchase Apple-branded products to access certain features. The EU's ruling aims to change this by promoting interoperability and giving users more choices.

One of the most significant features that will be opened up is iOS notifications, which will allow third-party smartwatches to display and interact with notifications in the same way as Apple Watch devices. This will provide users with more options for wearable devices and enable them to access notifications on their wrists without being tied to an Apple Watch.

Other features that will be made available to third-party devices include background app functionality, which will enable devices to collect information like news and weather updates from connected iPhones without interruption. Additionally, Apple's audio-switching capabilities, which allow headphones to automatically switch between different devices, will be opened up to third-party earphones and headsets.

The EU's guidelines also require Apple to allow devices to use the same high-bandwidth iPhone connections currently only available on Apple hardware. This could improve connectivity on third-party VR headsets and provide users with a more seamless experience.

Furthermore, the EU has mandated that Apple enable other platforms to send and receive data via AirDrop and AirPlay when connected with an Apple device. iOS will also need to support alternative services to both AirDrop and AirPlay, providing users with more options for file sharing and streaming.

Other improvements expected for third-party devices include easier setup without the need for a companion app, automatic connection to Wi-Fi networks via iPhones, and easy receipt of contactless payment credentials via NFC transfer.

Apple has expressed its opposition to the EU's requirements, stating that they are "bad for our products and for our European users." However, the EU remains confident that its ruling will force Apple to open up its walled iOS garden for other platform developers. If Apple fails to comply with the guidelines by the end of 2025, it risks facing a non-compliance investigation that could result in hefty fines of up to 10% of its annual turnover.

The implications of the EU's ruling are far-reaching, and could have a significant impact on the tech industry as a whole. By promoting interoperability and competition, the EU is creating a more level playing field for device manufacturers and providing users with more choices and flexibility. As the tech industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Apple and other manufacturers respond to the EU's guidelines and adapt to the changing landscape.