The European Union is intensifying its efforts to make Apple’s iOS and iPadOS more interoperable with third-party devices and services. Through a series of draft proposals under the Digital Markets Act, the European Commission aims to enhance competition by enabling third parties like Meta to integrate their services more seamlessly into Apple’s ecosystem.
The EU’s recommendations, which encompass aspects such as iOS notifications, data transfers, and device setup, invite feedback until January 9, 2025. The final legally-binding measures are expected to be issued by March 2025. Non-compliance could result in significant fines for Apple and potential investigations.
Apple has voiced strong concerns regarding these proposals, particularly highlighting the potential risks to user privacy and security. The company points to numerous data access requests from Meta, arguing that such interoperability could compromise the integrity of user data. Meta, which has made 15 such requests, disputes Apple’s stance, claiming that the privacy concerns are overstated and serve as a pretext for Apple’s anti-competitive behavior.
The ongoing debate between Apple and Meta underscores the conflict between maintaining robust user privacy and fostering a competitive marketplace. The European Commission’s forthcoming guidelines and measures will be pivotal in shaping the future framework for digital platform interoperability in Europe.

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The European Union is working to make Apple's iOS and iPadOS more interoperable with third-party services under the Digital Markets Act, which aims to enhance competition. The proposals address iOS notifications, data transfers, and device setup, with feedback invited until January 2025 and final measures expected by March 2025. Apple has raised privacy concerns, while Meta argues that these concerns are overstated. The guidelines will significantly impact digital platform interoperability in Europe.

Apple and Meta Clash Over Privacy and Interoperability in the EU