Breaking News
Apple argues these mandates undermine its ecosystem’s security and innovation, sparking speculation that it may withdraw features or products from the region.
Apple's ongoing regulatory standoff with the European Union has reached a critical point, with the tech giant warning it may remove or limit AirDrop and other core iOS functionalities in the EU. This follows the European Commission's €500 million fine imposed on Apple for allegedly violating the Digital Markets Act (DMA)—a law aimed at increasing competition by requiring major platforms to open their ecosystems to third-party developers.
At the heart of the dispute is the EU’s demand that Apple grant third-party apps access to features like AirDrop, background execution, and notification controls. Apple has appealed the decision, arguing that these mandates compromise user privacy, security, and the overall iOS user experience. According to Apple, enforcing such provisions would create a fragmented and less secure experience for its users in the European market.
At the heart of the dispute is the EU’s demand that Apple grant third-party apps access to features like AirDrop, background execution, and notification controls. Apple has appealed the decision, arguing that these mandates compromise user privacy, security, and the overall iOS user experience. According to Apple, enforcing such provisions would create a fragmented and less secure experience for its users in the European market.
The company further claims that the EU’s approach singles out Apple unfairly and undermines its ability to deliver a seamless and integrated software-hardware experience. Analysts now speculate that Apple may consider removing certain features, scaling back product offerings, or delaying feature rollouts in the region to maintain its platform integrity.
This development fuels ongoing debates about platform gatekeeping, digital sovereignty, and the future of regulatory oversight on Big Tech in Europe. Meanwhile, consumers in the EU may face limited functionality on iPhones if Apple follows through on its warnings, potentially reshaping the tech landscape in the region.
See What’s Next in Tech With the Fast Forward Newsletter
Tweets From @varindiamag
Nothing to see here - yet
When they Tweet, their Tweets will show up here.
