Apple Pushes Back Against EU’s Order to Open iOS Ecosystem to Competitors
Apple Inc. has formally filed a legal challenge against the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) order, which demands the company open up its tightly controlled ecosystem to rivals like Meta, Google, and Spotify. The tech giant called the EU’s requirements “unreasonable, costly, and innovation-stifling.”
The move intensifies the standoff between the European Commission and Apple, which maintains that forced interoperability will compromise user privacy, security, and overall product quality for millions of users across Europe.
What Is the EU Digital Markets Act (DMA)?
The Digital Markets Act is a landmark regulation introduced by the European Commission aimed at curbing the market power of big tech firms. It imposes rules on so-called “gatekeeper” platforms, requiring them to:
- Ensure interoperability between their services and third-party products
- Open access to core platform technologies
- Allow competitors to interact with their ecosystems
In March 2025, the Commission outlined how Apple must comply with the act, setting detailed timelines and obligations.
Apple’s Response: “Flawed Rules That Target Only Us”
In its official statement, Apple said:
“These deeply flawed rules that only target Apple, and no other company, will severely limit our ability to deliver innovative products and features to Europe, leading to an inferior user experience for our European customers.”
The company argues that:
- Interoperability requirements could expose sensitive user data to third parties
- The process is costly and disruptive to current system architecture
- The DMA disproportionately targets Apple compared to other tech firms
Apple also warned that the new rules might benefit “data-hungry” competitors like Meta and Google, potentially putting EU users’ privacy at risk.
Who Stands to Gain Access to Apple’s Ecosystem?
Several major tech companies have reportedly expressed interest in accessing Apple’s closed systems, including:
- Meta (Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram)
- Google (Alphabet)
- Spotify
- Garmin (wearables and navigation devices)
These companies seek access to Apple’s technology and mobile operating system, allowing their devices and applications to interact directly with iPhones, iPads, and other Apple products.
Compliance Required: Despite Legal Appeal
While Apple’s legal battle is likely to stretch over several years, the company must comply with the EU order in the meantime. The European Commission has outlined a structured timeline for Apple to:
- Provide technical access to third-party developers
- Enable smartphone, headphone, and VR device interoperability
- Respond to interoperability requests from developers within a set period
What’s Next: Legal Fight vs Regulatory Compliance
The case sets the stage for a high-stakes legal showdown between Apple and European regulators. If Apple loses, the outcome could reshape how closed platforms operate across the continent—and potentially beyond.
For now, Apple must walk a tightrope: complying with EU law while simultaneously preparing to challenge it in court. The company’s stance signals its commitment to maintaining control over its ecosystem, while regulators push for greater competition and consumer choice.
Apple’s Battle Over Innovation, Privacy, and Market Power
Apple’s legal challenge to the EU’s Digital Markets Act could redefine the future of tech regulation in Europe. With privacy, innovation, and competition all at stake, the case will be closely watched by:
- Lawmakers
- Competitors
- Developers
- Consumers worldwide
While compliance is underway, the outcome of this legal battle could determine whether Apple’s closed ecosystem remains intact, or opens up to a new era of digital interoperability.
