Apple and Meta Clash Over Interoperability Under EU's Digital Markets Act

Apple has criticized Meta Platforms for making numerous requests under the European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA) to access iPhone software tools, arguing that these requests could compromise user privacy and security, reports Reuters. The tech giants' public dispute highlights the intensifying rivalry between the two companies under the new EU regulations.

The DMA, which came into effect last year, requires companies like Apple to allow competitors and app developers to interoperate with their services, or face potential fines of up to 10% of their global annual turnover. Meta, Apple claims, has submitted 15 interoperability requests so far, exceeding those from any other company, seeking potentially broad access to Apple's technology stack.

"In many cases, Meta is seeking to alter functionality in a way that raises concerns about the privacy and security of users," Apple stated in a report. The company pointed to Meta's past privacy violations in Europe, which have resulted in significant fines, as a cause for concern.

Apple further argued that granting Meta's requests could grant the social media giant extensive access to user data, including messages, emails, phone calls, app usage, photos, files, calendar events, and passwords.

Meta, however, dismissed Apple's concerns, stating that the tech giant is using privacy as a pretext to avoid complying with the DMA. "What Apple is actually saying is they don't believe in interoperability," said a Meta spokesperson. "Every time Apple is called out for its anticompetitive behavior, they defend themselves on privacy grounds that have no basis in reality."

Separately, the European Commission, which is overseeing the DMA's implementation, published preliminary findings on Apple's compliance with the interoperability requirements. The Commission outlined proposed measures for Apple, including providing clear descriptions of interoperability assessment criteria and timelines, offering regular updates to developers, and establishing a fair mechanism to resolve disputes.

Apple is expected to provide feedback on the Commission's proposals by January 9th, with a final decision on its compliance with the DMA anticipated in March 2024.