Apple Criticizes EU Interoperability Rules, Citing Security and Privacy Risks

Apple has strongly condemned the European Union’s latest decision, which mandates the company to implement specific interoperability measures in the coming months. In a statement to 9to5Mac, Apple argued that these requirements hinder innovation and compromise user security and privacy.

The company stated:

“Today’s decisions wrap us in red tape, slowing down Apple’s ability to innovate for users in Europe and forcing us to give away our new features for free to companies that don’t have to play by the same rules. It’s bad for our products and for our European users. We will continue to work with the European Commission to help them understand our concerns on behalf of our users.”

Apple is particularly concerned about the potential privacy risks associated with granting third-party access to iOS notifications. The company warned that such measures could allow external firms to collect user notifications in an unencrypted format, bypassing Apple’s usual privacy protections.

Additionally, Apple criticized the regulatory burden imposed by these rules, arguing that they disrupt its ability to introduce new products and features. The company contends that being forced to share its innovations for free undermines competition rather than fostering it.

Apple also noted that, to date, the European Commission has only applied these Digital Markets Act (DMA) requirements to Apple, leaving other companies unaffected. The company believes this selective enforcement allows competitors to benefit from Apple’s advancements without facing the same restrictions.

Despite its objections, Apple confirmed that it will comply with the law and continue working with the European Commission on these matters. The company has already committed to rolling out some of the mandated interoperability changes as part of iOS 19.