Apple blames EU’s Digital Markets Act for feature delays

The European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) has been in effect for three years now, aiming to curb major tech platforms’ anti-competitive practices by facilitating easier platform switching and data transfer between devices and apps.

Unsurprisingly, big tech companies like Apple are not pleased with the regulation. Apple recently criticized the EU’s enforcement of the DMA, attributing delays in launching certain features in the EU to the rules. The company claimed that these regulations are negatively impacting Apple customers in the EU, exposing them to new risks and limiting their choices.

Due to the DMA’s interoperability requirements, Apple stated that it has to postpone the release of features such as live translation for AirPods, iPhone mirroring on Macs, and the visited places and preferred routes feature on Maps in the EU. The company anticipates that the list of delayed features may continue to grow.

Apple argues that complying with the DMA’s interoperability mandates poses challenges to user privacy. The law mandates companies to make their proprietary apps and features compatible with third-party hardware and software, a move that Apple believes could compromise user data.

In a blog post, Apple mentioned that proposed changes to protect user data have been rejected by the European Commission. The company highlighted that sharing these features with Apple users before making them available on other companies’ products could result in fines and potential product shipment bans in the EU.

Following a $550 million fine imposed by the EU for breaching the DMA, Apple has appealed the decision. The company also expressed concerns about the increased risks of scams, malware, and fraud to users as a result of the DMA’s requirements to allow third-party app installations and alternative payment methods.

Apple emphasized that the DMA is resulting in a deteriorating experience for its EU users, exposing them to new risks and disrupting the seamless operation of their Apple products. The company expressed concerns that as new technologies emerge, European users may fall further behind in utilizing their Apple products.

The European Commission has not yet responded to requests for comment on the matter.