Apple Challenges EU’s Digital Markets Act, Citing Security Risks and Feature Delays

Apple is formally urging the European Union to reconsider its landmark tech legislation. The company claims the Digital Markets Act (DMA) has made iPhones less secure. It also says the law has forced it to withhold key software features from users in Europe.

This represents Apple’s strongest public criticism of the DMA to date. The company posted a detailed statement outlining its concerns this week.

Security Vulnerabilities and Unwanted Content

Apple states that mandatory support for third-party app stores has created new dangers. It says users are now exposed to malware, scams, and privacy risks. The company points to apps involving pornography and gambling that are now available.

These apps appear through alternative marketplaces like AltStore. Apple has historically blocked such content from its own App Store. According to Reuters, EU regulators designed the rules to increase competition and consumer choice.

Apple argues the result is a worse experience. It says the changes compromise the security it is known for.

Key Features Withheld from European Users

The compliance burden has also impacted product development. Apple confirms it has delayed or canceled at least three major features for the EU. iPhone Mirroring, which lets users control their iPhone from a Mac, is unavailable.

Apple says it cannot safely extend this feature to Windows PCs under the DMA’s rules. Its AI-powered Live Translation for AirPods has also been put on hold. The company cites engineering challenges related to user privacy.

Similarly, new Maps features like Visited Places are delayed. Apple states it cannot share the necessary data with other developers without risking user location privacy. Thousands of engineering hours are being spent on compliance instead of innovation.

A Broader Clash Over Data and Control

The conflict highlights a fundamental disagreement on digital market rules. The EU believes opening up closed ecosystems fosters fair competition. Apple contends this comes at the cost of user safety and product integrity.

The European Commission previously fined Apple 500 million euros for non-compliance. The DMA allows for penalties of up to 10% of a company’s global annual revenue. For repeat offenses, this can rise to 20%.

Apple is appealing the fine. The company’s latest statement signals a deepening stalemate with regulators.

The future of the Digital Markets Act remains a critical issue for big tech. Apple’s public challenge sets the stage for a prolonged regulatory battle. European consumers are caught in the middle, facing a different digital experience than the rest of the world.

Info at your fingertips

What is the Digital Markets Act?

The Digital Markets Act (DMA) is a European Union law designed to regulate large online platforms. It aims to ensure fair competition by limiting the power of so-called “gatekeeper” companies like Apple.

Why does Apple oppose the DMA?

Apple argues the DMA forces it to create security holes in its products. The company says it must compromise user privacy and its ecosystem’s integrity to comply with the new rules.

Which Apple features are delayed in Europe?

Apple has postponed iPhone Mirroring, AirPods Live Translation, and new Maps features for EU users. The company says it cannot implement them safely under the current DMA requirements.

Has Apple been fined by the EU?

Yes. In April, the European Commission hit Apple with a 500 million euro fine. The penalty was related to App Store rules that prevent developers from directing users to alternative payment methods.

What are the potential penalties for Apple?

For serious DMA breaches, companies can be fined up to 10% of their global annual turnover. Repeat offenders could face penalties as high as 20%.