EU wants Apple to make iOS more open to third-party accessories

Apple has been under scrutiny by the European Union (EU) for a long time. Unfortunately, this situation doesn’t seem to be changing anytime soon. Previously, Apple had to make multiple changes to the App Store and iOS following the EU’s order. Now, the EU pressures the company to make iOS and iPadOS more open to third-party accessories.

The EU says Apple must make iOS more open to third-party accessories makers

The European Union wants Apple to continue complying with the Digital Markets Act. With the first proceedings, it wants Apple to offer “free and effective interoperability to third-party developers and businesses” on iOS. In a press release published today, the EU states that Apple must provide enhanced support for third-party accessories on iOS.

Besides, the EU wants Apple to offer the same capability as it does for its in-house products. Moreover, the governing body adds that it will soon specify how Apple will offer effective interoperability with features including notifications, device pairing, and connectivity on iPhones and iPads.

Not complying with orders may result in a fine

If we consider the press release, the governing body will provide detailed instructions to Apple within six months time. Once everything is addressed, the EU will communicate the findings of the proceedings with Apple. On the other hand, if Apple refuses to comply with the EU orders to make iOS more open for third-party accessories, it could attract fines or periodic penalty payments.

Margrethe Vestager, Executive Vice-President in charge of competition policy has explained why the EU is ordering Apple to make iOS more open to outside accessories makers. A part of her statement in the press release reads “We are focused on ensuring fair and open digital markets. Effective interoperability, for example with smartphones and their operating systems, plays an important role in this. This process will provide clarity for developers, third parties, and Apple.”

To catch you up, this isn’t the first time Apple has undergone scrutiny by the EU. In fact, the company is already on the EU’s radar for alleged violations of the DMA with App Store. More recently, the Cupertino giant reversed some limitations on Spotify after receiving a $2 billion fine with a lawsuit in an anti-trust case relating to music streaming. Time will tell if Apple complies with the latest EU order to make iOS more open for the other accessories makers.