The European Commission has taken a significant step towards enforcing interoperability requirements on Apple's mobile operating systems, iOS and iPadOS, under the Digital Markets Act (DMA). The Commission has published draft proposals outlining measures for Apple to achieve "effective interoperability" with its platforms, and is inviting feedback from stakeholders by January 9, 2025.

The proposed measures aim to boost competition by enabling third-party services to plug into dominant platforms like Apple's. The Commission's focus is on iOS and iPadOS, with specific requirements for interoperability in areas such as notifications, background execution, automatic audio switching, and data transfer features like AirDrop and AirPlay. The proposals also cover device setup and configuration, including proximity-triggered pairing and automatic Wi-Fi connection.

The Commission has launched two consultations: one on proposed measures for interoperability between Apple's iOS operating system and connected devices, and another on proposed measures for requesting interoperability with Apple's iOS and iPadOS operating systems. The latter consultation seeks to improve the request-based process for third-party developers seeking interoperability with Apple's platforms.

Apple has responded to the proposals, expressing concerns that abuse of DMA interoperability requirements could harm user privacy. In a five-page report, Apple suggests that "data-hungry companies" may "weaponize interoperability" and argues that the proposed measures could stifle innovation. The company also takes aim at Meta, accusing the adtech giant of making over-broad DMA access requests.

Apple's lobbying document emphasizes the importance of protecting user privacy and argues that the company's innovations should not be shared with competitors. However, the Commission is seeking technical views on the effectiveness of the proposed measures, including their feasibility, completeness, and timelines for implementation.

The EU's consultation process is expected to run until mid-March, after which the Commission will adopt final decisions on the measures Apple must take to meet the DMA's interoperability requirements. The Commission has stated that it will carefully assess feedback from stakeholders, including Apple, and may make adjustments to the proposed measures based on the input received.

The implications of the EU's interoperability proposals are far-reaching, with potential consequences for the entire tech industry. As the Commission works to finalize its decisions, the industry will be watching closely to see how the DMA's requirements will shape the future of platform competition and innovation.

With the EU's regulatory landscape continuing to evolve, tech companies like Apple will need to adapt to the new rules and requirements. As the Commission seeks to promote competition and innovation, the industry will be closely following the developments in the interoperability saga.