EU Orders Apple to Open Nine iOS Connectivity Features for Interoperability

The European Commission has issued two significant decisions under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), compelling Apple to improve interoperability between its iOS ecosystem and third-party devices and developers. Announced on March 18, 2025, these legally binding measures aim to integrate third-party products more seamlessly with iPhones and iPads, targeting nine specific connectivity features and the process for handling interoperability requests. For Apple users and developers in Europe, this could mean broader compatibility and access to innovative hardware and services; however, Apple says it will slow its ability to innovate for users and force the company to give away features for free to companies.The first decision focuses on nine iOS connectivity features critical for devices like smartwatches, headphones, and TVs. These include notifications, background execution, automatic audio switching, high-bandwidth peer-to-peer Wi-Fi connections, close-range wireless file transfers (akin to AirDrop), media casting (similar to AirPlay), NFC in reader/writer mode, proximity-triggered pairing, and automatic Wi-Fi connections. Device manufacturers and app developers will gain enhanced access to these features, enabling capabilities such as displaying notifications on non-Apple smartwatches, faster file sharing as an alternative to AirDrop, or casting media to TVs without relying solely on AirPlay. Apple must ensure these solutions match the effectiveness of its own offerings, maintaining user privacy and system integrity.The second decision addresses Apple's process for handling interoperability requests from developers. It mandates greater transparency with detailed technical documentation, a structured timeline for reviews, and clear communication channels. Developers can expect eligibility assessments within 20 working days, project plans within 40 days, and development cycles completed in 6 to 18 months, depending on complexity. Solutions must launch in the next relevant iOS or iPadOS update, with a maximum timeline of 24 months. Dispute resolution mechanisms, including an independent conciliation process, will be fully operational by July 19, 2025, while other process measures take effect by May 19, 2025.Continue ReadingSpotlight Deal:Apple Studio Display On Sale for $1249 [Lowest Price Ever]Share Article:Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Reddit, EmailFollow iClarified:Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Newsletter, App Store, YouTube

Mar 19, 2025 - 18:00

EU Orders Apple to Open Nine iOS Connectivity Features for Interoperability

The European Commission has issued two significant decisions under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), compelling Apple to improve interoperability between its iOS ecosystem and third-party devices and developers. Announced on March 18, 2025, these legally binding measures aim to integrate third-party products more seamlessly with iPhones and iPads, targeting nine specific connectivity features and the process for handling interoperability requests. For Apple users and developers in Europe, this could mean broader compatibility and access to innovative hardware and services; however, Apple says it will slow its ability to innovate for users and force the company to give away features for free to companies.

The first decision focuses on nine iOS connectivity features critical for devices like smartwatches, headphones, and TVs. These include notifications, background execution, automatic audio switching, high-bandwidth peer-to-peer Wi-Fi connections, close-range wireless file transfers (akin to AirDrop), media casting (similar to AirPlay), NFC in reader/writer mode, proximity-triggered pairing, and automatic Wi-Fi connections. Device manufacturers and app developers will gain enhanced access to these features, enabling capabilities such as displaying notifications on non-Apple smartwatches, faster file sharing as an alternative to AirDrop, or casting media to TVs without relying solely on AirPlay. Apple must ensure these solutions match the effectiveness of its own offerings, maintaining user privacy and system integrity.

The second decision addresses Apple's process for handling interoperability requests from developers. It mandates greater transparency with detailed technical documentation, a structured timeline for reviews, and clear communication channels. Developers can expect eligibility assessments within 20 working days, project plans within 40 days, and development cycles completed in 6 to 18 months, depending on complexity. Solutions must launch in the next relevant iOS or iPadOS update, with a maximum timeline of 24 months. Dispute resolution mechanisms, including an independent conciliation process, will be fully operational by July 19, 2025, while other process measures take effect by May 19, 2025.

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