Apple Bucks EU Pressure Over Device Interoperability: A Closer Look at the Controversy
Criticism by Apple towards EU's data protection demands, viewed as potential threat to user data privacy
Apple's latest spat with the EU Commission concerns new guidelines aimed at improving interoperability between iPhones, iPads, and devices from competitors. At its WWDC developer conference, Apple voiced concerns that these requirements could jeopardize user data privacy and potentially delay or degrade new features for European users [1].
Currently, features such as iPhone control via Mac computers aren't available in the EU. The EU Commission cites the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which prevents large platform operators from self-preferencing, as the basis for these demands [2]. The Brussels agency insists that technology from other providers should be on par with Apple's native devices for notifications, file transfers, and audio functions.
Digging Deeper
The issue lies in Apple's concern over disclosing user data to competitors. For instance, if a text message from an iPhone is displayed on an Apple Watch, it's encrypted and only visible in plain text on Apple devices [3]. However, these privacy protections could be compromised when transferring to watches from other providers. Apple also believes that other companies requesting information about previously visited Wi-Fi networks could potentially reveal user locations and is unnerved by the loss of control [3].
In early June, Apple submitted an objection to the Commission's demands [3]. Previously, the company had warned against data-hungry companies like Meta (Facebook Corporation) in December, citing its request for deep access to user information [3]. Meta responded that Apple often cited data protection when accused of anti-competitive behavior [3].
The EU Commission emphasized that these interoperability demands were intended to ensure fair competition and provide customers with more choices [3].
The Nitty-Gritty
The specific EU demands include:
- Sharing notifications, including those with pictures, on non-Apple smartwatches and headsets [2][3]
- Facilitating automatic WiFi network connectivity for third-party devices by the end of 2025 [3]
- Implementing faster data transfers for non-Apple hardware [4]
- Enabling developers to integrate alternatives to Apple's AirDrop and AirPlay services into their iOS apps [2]
Apple has expressed concerns over privacy, intellectual property, and innovation being stifled as a result of these demands [1][4]. The company has filed an appeal against the EU's interoperability requirements [4]. Failure to comply could lead to fines amounting to 10% of Apple's worldwide annual turnover [2][4].
Further Reading
- iOS 26: Fresh Features for the iPhone: The Most Important Apple Innovations
- Stuttgart Families: Higher Subsidy for Home Purchase Rejected
- Northern Ireland: Severe Riots Again - Leisure Center Burns
Sources
- [1] Apple warns of privacy risks as EU pushes for iPhone device interoperability, Reuters, 2025
- [2] EU sets mandatory rules for App Store, Reuters, 2023
- [3] Apple Takes EU to Court Over Phone Privacy and App Store, The Wall Street Journal, 2025
- [4] Apple Sues EU Over Interoperability Regulations, TechCrunch, 2025
- Apple's objection against the EU's interoperability demands, regarding features like sharing notifications and implementing faster data transfers for non-Apple hardware, is rooted in concerns about maintaining user privacy, protecting intellectual property, and preventing innovation stifling in the financial and technology-focused business sectors.
- The EU Commission's insistence on Apple adhering to interoperability requirements, such as facilitating connections on non-Apple smartwatches and headsets, is driven by the desire to promote fair competition within the technology sector, ultimately offering customers more choices and control over their devices.
