EU warns Apple to open up iPhone operating system

EU warns Apple to open iPhone, iPad systems to rival tech or face potential fines.

The European Union has issued a warning to Apple Inc. to align its iPhone and iPad operating systems with new digital antitrust regulations or face substantial fines, according to a report by Bloomberg.

Under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), the EU requires Apple to enhance interoperability with rival technologies.

EU regulators have given Apple six months to comply with the new laws, which are aimed at ensuring other companies can access key features of Apple’s operating systems.

Failure to meet these requirements could result in significant financial penalties.

Margrethe Vestager, the EU competition chief, emphasized the importance of interoperability, stating, “Today is the first time we use specification proceedings under the DMA to guide Apple towards effective compliance with its interoperability obligations.”

The company is also under scrutiny for its App Store rules, which could result in additional fines.

Earlier this month, Apple unveiled its iPhone 16, featuring incremental hardware updates and upcoming AI advancements.

However, the company has indicated that some features, including Apple Intelligence and SharePlay Screen Sharing, may be delayed in the EU due to the DMA's interoperability requirements.