I read this situation as a classic case of politicians ruling on subject matter they are functionally illiterate on. It's not localized. I regard it as endemic to the political class, everywhere. It's not a left or right issue. It is an issue of authoritarianism & presumption of competence where none exists. I see it often in areas of technology and economics. This is not a case of "our politicians" vs "their politicians". Politicians frequently presume they know better, about anything they can force through threat of violence, as all laws ultimately are, with little to no consideration of the consequences.
I hate that the news here on AI has devolved into nationalism and partisanship but I guess that's the temp of the world right now. Calls for Apple to leave the EU makes absolutely no sense and every single person commenting that understands that.
Apple won’t leave there will just be a fork in the road the days of having the same type of iPhone or the same type of Apple devices across all borders is coming to an end, and the way the EU is acting they will bitch about the rest of the world getting something different than they get when it comes to Apple devices, and the EU will complain about the uncompetitiveness of it all, it is now pretty obvious that the EU will not stop.
Is there anymore doubt the EU is evil and anti American?
Trump is right in this one
What an arrogant & narcissistic thing to say. Have you considered the USA being anti-European?
Also, this article is sensationalist nonsense written by someone who’s clearly incredibly biased. It totally misrepresents the demands of EU and places the conflict in the wrong context.
I recommend people to actually read EU’s arguments (easy to Google) instead of this brain rot article.
In exactly which particulars is the article wrong and what exactly is the EU's position where you believe it differs from what is stated in the article. Please be specific and cite sources in your response.
Ok, I won't hold my breath for that, but, frankly, it's hard not to see how the EU putting the screws on American tech companies doesn't lend credence to Trump's rhetoric. This is a boon for the radical elements in charge of our government right now, which will end up backfiring on the EU, and all because the EU wants to appropriate Apple's, and other tech companies', IP and shake them down for cash.
Sure. Here is the actual *information* summarized, without the usual AppleInsider craziness:
The European Commission has issued two legally binding decisions under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) to ensure that Apple enhances interoperability between its iOS operating system and third-party devices and applications.
Key Requirements:
1. Interoperability with Connected Devices:
• Apple must grant third-party device manufacturers access to specific iOS features to facilitate seamless integration. This includes functionalities such as notifications, background processes, and various wireless technologies (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC).
2. Transparency and Predictability for Developers:
• Apple is required to provide clearer guidelines and technical documentation to developers. This aims to make the process for requesting interoperability with iOS devices more transparent and predictable, ensuring that developers have the necessary information to integrate their products effectively.
These measures are designed to promote competition and innovation by allowing third-party devices and applications to work as seamlessly with iOS as Apple’s own products, thereby offering consumers more choices.
While Apple has expressed concerns that these directives might hinder innovation and place the company at a disadvantage compared to others, the European Commission maintains that these steps are essential for ensuring a fair and open digital market.
These decisions are part of the European Commission’s ongoing efforts to enforce the DMA, targeting major tech companies to ensure they do not engage in anti-competitive practices.
The reason why Apple specifically is targeted is the fact Android already does comply. Again, AppleInsider likes to look at it this from the lens of a cult. Maybe they should be acquired by Fox News?
Tim Cook has excellent access to Trump so likely Apple will be an example used in a soon to come tariff war.
And not undeservedly. Cook needed a very powerful ally to fight abusive government bodies. The attacks on American companies and Apple in particular have gotten far out of hand.
The only way some of these types learn is when the gravy train stops coming around.
It’s like the EU is purposely driving their continent back to the dark ages.
Is there anymore doubt the EU is evil and anti American?
Trump is right in this one
Looking at the biggest threat mankind has ever faced, climate change, we see the EU doing something about it and the US even denying its existence and danger. That makes the EU the good one and the USA the evil one.
Now, if you want to talk about specific issues that's a different thing, but calling the EU evil or at least more evil than the US because of this problem is misplaced.
Has the European Commission ever released a report on how many smaller competitors that are not Epic or Spotify are harmed by Apple specifically by anti-competitive practices and not by bad business decisions? I remember some dating apps that were joining with Epic in Europe, but I haven’t seen any examples in these articles where there is some factual evidence that legitimate anti-competitive practices from Apple has harmed a small competitor from making a service or product and the consumer would also be harmed.
I understand Sherlocking, and I’m no fan of Apple doing that, but I would like to see if Appleinsider has ever seen a report that has legitimate evidence that this draconian behavior has bore fruit that has benefited the customer.
No need for examples. The fact that Apple didn't allow apps to tell users that they could pay outside of the AppStore obviously hurt every single company with a monthly subscription.
There's a real simple solution here: Apple should just make a separate model, the iPhone eu, sold only in the EU, with it's own version of iOSeu, that has no privacy protections, very few features, and complies with their stupid DMA, but doesn't give away any intellectual property. When it becomes riddled with bugs, malware, spyware, let it crash and burn.
When they see the rest of Apple's customers worldwide moving on, EU customers will have to make their choice, and remove those responsible for this obnoxious DMA policy, and repeal or modify the DMA to be more practical.
The issue with this approach is that they will have to fork iOS development again. I already wonder if there aren't already too many iOS versions that Apple uses for itself. And, what would be the point of offering new hardware?
"The European Commission is forcing new rules on Apple -- and only Apple" - huh? Every Gatekeeper in EU has to abide by the rules. Apple thinks it is uniquely exempt from the law, so the EU worked with Apple, and competitors, to assist Apple to understand what it would need to do to comply. Whether or not Apple likes those rules, or whether Apple Insider likes those rules, is immaterial; if you want to do business in the EU, obey EU law. If I want to do business in the USA, I must obey US law - I'm sure even Mr Trump would agree. Why should Apple be above the law of 27 nations?
Apple only has 22-24% of the market in Europe. Yet, the EU determined that it was a "gatekeeper". The EU keeps shifting how the rules are defined and applied by the DMA, which had been a consistent complaint about that legislation even before it was enacted. Apple is known to be a closed ecosystem, and it has never made a secret of that. And, there is an alternate phone competitor, which actually does have the majority of the market. Despite this, Apple has created these thousands of API's for outside companies to interface with its products whether it is because of benevolence or because of free market demands. The EU hasn't "worked" with Apple; Apple has asked for clarification and replied as the article states, but the EIU has disregarded Apple's concerns, especially as they relate to privacy and proprietary technology.
As the article also points out, Spotify, which truly does control a majority share of the market, isn't even held to the same standard. So, it isn't a matter of Apple not following EU law; it is a matter of the EU selectively applying the law, trying to wring money out of Apple with its massive fines (10% of international revenues, really? how is that even a fair penalty?) and hamstring another American company because the EU cannot innovate.
Apple should pull out of the EU and sell mail order. Until the citizens of the EU realize what their bureaucracy is up to. Nothing will change; they will go on unchecked.
Apple is being singled out. Does an Apple Watch have to work with Android, etc etc? The hypocrisy is crazy.
And where is Trump on the issue? He hasn't done jack squat. Too busy adding tariffs.
If I were Tim Cook, I would tell Trump to go f— himself. Tim begrudgingly supported him, and he's done nothing but crap all over Apple with tariffs and silence.
Is there anymore doubt the EU is evil and anti American?
Trump is right in this one
What an arrogant & narcissistic thing to say. Have you considered the USA being anti-European?
Also, this article is sensationalist nonsense written by someone who’s clearly incredibly biased. It totally misrepresents the demands of EU and places the conflict in the wrong context.
I recommend people to actually read EU’s arguments (easy to Google) instead of this brain rot article.
In exactly which particulars is the article wrong and what exactly is the EU's position where you believe it differs from what is stated in the article. Please be specific and cite sources in your response.
Ok, I won't hold my breath for that, but, frankly, it's hard not to see how the EU putting the screws on American tech companies doesn't lend credence to Trump's rhetoric. This is a boon for the radical elements in charge of our government right now, which will end up backfiring on the EU, and all because the EU wants to appropriate Apple's, and other tech companies', IP and shake them down for cash.
Sure. Here is the actual *information* summarized, without the usual AppleInsider craziness:
The European Commission has issued two legally binding decisions under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) to ensure that Apple enhances interoperability between its iOS operating system and third-party devices and applications.
Key Requirements:
1. Interoperability with Connected Devices:
• Apple must grant third-party device manufacturers access to specific iOS features to facilitate seamless integration. This includes functionalities such as notifications, background processes, and various wireless technologies (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC).
2. Transparency and Predictability for Developers:
• Apple is required to provide clearer guidelines and technical documentation to developers. This aims to make the process for requesting interoperability with iOS devices more transparent and predictable, ensuring that developers have the necessary information to integrate their products effectively.
These measures are designed to promote competition and innovation by allowing third-party devices and applications to work as seamlessly with iOS as Apple’s own products, thereby offering consumers more choices.
While Apple has expressed concerns that these directives might hinder innovation and place the company at a disadvantage compared to others, the European Commission maintains that these steps are essential for ensuring a fair and open digital market.
These decisions are part of the European Commission’s ongoing efforts to enforce the DMA, targeting major tech companies to ensure they do not engage in anti-competitive practices.
The reason why Apple specifically is targeted is the fact Android already does comply. Again, AppleInsider likes to look at it this from the lens of a cult. Maybe they should be acquired by Fox News?
Sorry, but you failed to answer the question nor did you provide a foundation for your previous accusations.
I have a gasoline powered car. I want it to be operable with all those electric chargers. I demand the manufacturer make my car work with those chargers.
I think the reality is that humans are totally incapable of living in a peaceful, collaborative, cooperative, and mutually beneficial way. It’s all about screwing the other guy to make yourself and your tribe feel better about themselves, their own personal desires, and their world view. Forcing conflict, making unreasonable demands, and basically screwing people over for one’s own benefit never leads to a good outcome for all. Why would they think that this time is any different?
The EU is by no means to only entity that is not acting in good faith in today’s world. It’s a global reality of nearly every first world country on Earth. All of these petty acts of oneupmanship are eventually going to lead to much more serious consequences, especially when the global superpowers are now being led by totally unhinged individuals who are obsessed with power and vanity. The consequences of one of these unhinged individuals intervening on a matter of business for a publicly held company can quickly lead to much more serious conflict. I for one do not want to see any escalation.
No matter how much we love Apple, we cannot force another country or regional collective to operate their business environment and legal system on the USA’s terms. Has anyone talking about using US government executive power to bring the EU “in line” with the USA’s expectations ever considered how the USA would react if the tables were turned? Would the USA allow foreign companies to dictate the terms for how their products are sold in the USA? Hell no. Not in a million years. The USA would not allow the EU or any other country to bully it, … well maybe not unless a quid pro quo deal for building a luxury resort in Moscow and a premier golf course on the frozen tundra of Siberia was in play.
This is Apple’s fight to fight. If they try to hide behind the USA government and its whack-a-matic leader to win the day, things outside of selling super cool new gadgets to the EU will be the least of their worries. They would in effect be operating as a state sponsored business and be totally beholden to their new leader, who will no longer be someone named Tim. The right thing for Apple to do in this case, if Apple wants to maintain its independence and self sovereignty, are to comply and accept the terms laid out before them, build region-locked devices, or tell the EU to F%$@ Off and cease operations in the EU. All of these choices will involve sacrifices for Apple. If Apple is truly a customer-first company they will do whatever is in the best interests of their customers and not make them suffer any harm, including the loss of security and privacy.
Apple needs to continue to operate based on sound business practices, not politics.
I think the EU's position is perfectly reasonable and sensible.
Why shouldn't all manufacturers of peripheries such as Digital Watches / Headphones have the same access to the iPhone as Apple's own Watch/headphones?
Or are we suggesting anyone wanting to make a competing Apple Watch should just go and make their own phone to go with it?
Nothing will be exposed. As stated in the texts from the EC, there have been several technical meetings between all parties (developers included) since December.
Apple will open hooks into iOS for developers to use. Those APIs (as part of the EC requirements) must be sufficiently well documented for developers use without problems.
There is nothing unreasonable in the requirements and they are very well supported throughout the EU.
It's very possible that similar requirements will be passed in the US at some point too.
This is the exact same kind of approach as Apple would use if it were presenting the exact same functionality of its own free will (although in that scenario it would be trying to get a commission into the deal).
Up to now though, it has chosen not to do that and that approach has led to a degraded experience for other manufacturers.
Apple's claims to the general public are always the same (security, privacy and whatnot) but it is marketing.
Behind closed doors they have even said the words 'lock in' internally. They are fully aware of the limitations they impose and the advantages they provide to its own products in detriment to others.
Now, and with the relevant laws in hand, they are being required to change.
We will see the same tone used when the new batteries directive comes into effect. Or design for repair.
They used it prior to having to allow third party app stores too.
Comments
https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_25_816
The European Commission has issued two legally binding decisions under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) to ensure that Apple enhances interoperability between its iOS operating system and third-party devices and applications.
Key Requirements:
1. Interoperability with Connected Devices:
• Apple must grant third-party device manufacturers access to specific iOS features to facilitate seamless integration. This includes functionalities such as notifications, background processes, and various wireless technologies (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC).
2. Transparency and Predictability for Developers:
• Apple is required to provide clearer guidelines and technical documentation to developers. This aims to make the process for requesting interoperability with iOS devices more transparent and predictable, ensuring that developers have the necessary information to integrate their products effectively.
These measures are designed to promote competition and innovation by allowing third-party devices and applications to work as seamlessly with iOS as Apple’s own products, thereby offering consumers more choices.
While Apple has expressed concerns that these directives might hinder innovation and place the company at a disadvantage compared to others, the European Commission maintains that these steps are essential for ensuring a fair and open digital market.
These decisions are part of the European Commission’s ongoing efforts to enforce the DMA, targeting major tech companies to ensure they do not engage in anti-competitive practices.
If I were Tim Cook, I would tell Trump to go f— himself. Tim begrudgingly supported him, and he's done nothing but crap all over Apple with tariffs and silence.
https://electrek.co/2025/03/19/tesla-tsla-accounting-raises-red-flags-as-report-shows-1-4-billion-missing/
The EU is by no means to only entity that is not acting in good faith in today’s world. It’s a global reality of nearly every first world country on Earth. All of these petty acts of oneupmanship are eventually going to lead to much more serious consequences, especially when the global superpowers are now being led by totally unhinged individuals who are obsessed with power and vanity. The consequences of one of these unhinged individuals intervening on a matter of business for a publicly held company can quickly lead to much more serious conflict. I for one do not want to see any escalation.
No matter how much we love Apple, we cannot force another country or regional collective to operate their business environment and legal system on the USA’s terms. Has anyone talking about using US government executive power to bring the EU “in line” with the USA’s expectations ever considered how the USA would react if the tables were turned? Would the USA allow foreign companies to dictate the terms for how their products are sold in the USA? Hell no. Not in a million years. The USA would not allow the EU or any other country to bully it, … well maybe not unless a quid pro quo deal for building a luxury resort in Moscow and a premier golf course on the frozen tundra of Siberia was in play.
This is Apple’s fight to fight. If they try to hide behind the USA government and its whack-a-matic leader to win the day, things outside of selling super cool new gadgets to the EU will be the least of their worries. They would in effect be operating as a state sponsored business and be totally beholden to their new leader, who will no longer be someone named Tim. The right thing for Apple to do in this case, if Apple wants to maintain its independence and self sovereignty, are to comply and accept the terms laid out before them, build region-locked devices, or tell the EU to F%$@ Off and cease operations in the EU. All of these choices will involve sacrifices for Apple. If Apple is truly a customer-first company they will do whatever is in the best interests of their customers and not make them suffer any harm, including the loss of security and privacy.
Apple needs to continue to operate based on sound business practices, not politics.
I think the EU's position is perfectly reasonable and sensible.
Why shouldn't all manufacturers of peripheries such as Digital Watches / Headphones have the same access to the iPhone as Apple's own Watch/headphones?
Or are we suggesting anyone wanting to make a competing Apple Watch should just go and make their own phone to go with it?
Apple will open hooks into iOS for developers to use. Those APIs (as part of the EC requirements) must be sufficiently well documented for developers use without problems.
There is nothing unreasonable in the requirements and they are very well supported throughout the EU.
It's very possible that similar requirements will be passed in the US at some point too.
This is the exact same kind of approach as Apple would use if it were presenting the exact same functionality of its own free will (although in that scenario it would be trying to get a commission into the deal).
Up to now though, it has chosen not to do that and that approach has led to a degraded experience for other manufacturers.
Apple's claims to the general public are always the same (security, privacy and whatnot) but it is marketing.
Behind closed doors they have even said the words 'lock in' internally. They are fully aware of the limitations they impose and the advantages they provide to its own products in detriment to others.
Now, and with the relevant laws in hand, they are being required to change.
We will see the same tone used when the new batteries directive comes into effect. Or design for repair.
They used it prior to having to allow third party app stores too.