BRUSSELS: Tech giant Apple has openly challenged the European Union’s landmark Digital Markets Act (DMA), urging Brussels to repeal the regulation on grounds that it undermines innovation, complicates product development, and threatens user privacy.
In its formal submission to the European Commission’s review of the DMA, Apple argued that compliance requirements — particularly those forcing interoperability with non-Apple devices and platforms — have already caused delays in launching new features. These include Live Translation for AirPods, advanced iPhone-to-Mac mirroring tools, and enhanced mapping functions. The company claims that instead of improving consumer choice, the DMA has led to a restricted rollout of features within Europe compared to the rest of the world.
Apple has also raised serious concerns over security and privacy, warning that opening its systems to third-party apps and marketplaces could expose users to data breaches, fraud, and weaker security standards. The company insists that while the EU’s law is meant to curb the power of so-called “gatekeepers,” it has unintentionally created an “unequal playing field,” burdening Apple more heavily than its competitors.
The confrontation comes months after Brussels fined Apple €500 million for allegedly violating DMA rules by restricting developers from offering cheaper deals outside the App Store. Despite such penalties, Apple’s latest stance signals that it is preparing for a prolonged battle against European regulators.
EU officials, however, remain firm, reiterating that the DMA is mandatory and central to restoring fairness and competition in Europe’s digital markets. As the clash escalates, the outcome could shape the future of how tech giants operate across the continent.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.