Hartley Charlton
iPadOS is currently under formal scrutiny by the European Commission to determine whether it complies with the EU's Digital Market Act (DMA).
The European Commission's announcement marks the next step in its regulatory oversight of Apple, following the designation of iPadOS as a “gatekeeper” platform in April 2024. The classification was part of a broader effort to enforce the recently introduced DMA, which aims to limit the dominance of big tech companies and promote fair competition across the European Union.
The rules set out obligations for gatekeepers, requiring these companies to open up their software ecosystems to ensure a level playing field. In a press release (via Reuters), the European Commission explained:
Apple must, among other things, allow users to set the default web browser of their choice on iPadOS, allow alternative app stores in its operating system, and allow accessories such as headphones and smart pens to effectively access iPadOS features.
Apple has already made a number of changes to iPadOS in the European Union to comply with the rules, and the Commission is currently assessing whether these changes are sufficient. For example, iPadOS 18 will allow users in the European Union to install third-party app stores — called “app markets” by Apple — and set an alternative web browser as the default browser.
However, questions remain about Apple’s compliance with the DMA’s accessory compatibility provisions. The DMA states that platforms must support “accessory ecosystems such as headphones and smart pens,” allowing these third-party devices to work seamlessly with the core functionality of the operating system.
While iPad supports a wide range of headphones and styluses, the integration of accessories like AirPods and Apple Pencil remains significantly more seamless and feature-rich than third-party alternatives, offering capabilities like automatic device switching and pressure sensitivity.
Apple may try to argue that its current level of support for third-party accessories already meets the DMA’s requirements. Under the DMA’s provisions, violations could result in significant fines, potentially amounting to 10% of the company’s global annual revenue. A final decision is expected to be issued next year.
Note: Due to the political or social nature of the discussion on this topic, this thread is in our Political News forum. All forum members and site visitors can read and follow the thread, but posting is limited to forum members with at least 100 posts.
Related Reviews: iOS 18, iPadOS 18Tags: Apple Pencil Guide, Europe, European Union, iPadOSRelated Forums: iOS 18, iPadOS 18, iPad Accessories[ 203 comments ]
