What just happened? The European Union has outlined steps that Apple must take to open up its iPhone and iPad operating systems to better integrate with competitor’s devices under the Digital Markets Act (DMA). Under these new guidelines, Apple must enhance the interoperability of its iOS platform with devices such as smartwatches, headphones, and televisions.

For instance, third-party smartwatches must be able to display and interact with iOS notifications by the end of 2025, likely coinciding with iOS 19.2 or earlier.

Additionally, Apple must make its automatic audio-switching feature available to third-party headphones by June 1, 2026. This functionality, expected to be implemented in iOS 19.4 or earlier, currently allows seamless switching between Apple devices – a capability currently exclusive to AirPods and select Beats products.

Furthermore, Apple will be required to modify iOS to support third-party alternatives to AirDrop by June 1, 2026, and to AirPlay by iOS 20.

The European Commission has also specified that Apple must provide developers and businesses with free and effective interoperability with both hardware and software features, as outlined in Article 6(7) of the DMA. This includes access to nine previously restricted iOS connectivity features, such as peer-to-peer Wi-Fi, NFC capabilities, and device pairing. As a result, non-Apple devices – like Bluetooth headphones, smartwatches, and connected televisions – should achieve better compatibility with iPhones.

In addition to these technical changes, the EU has mandated that Apple improve transparency and efficiency in handling interoperability requests from developers. This includes ensuring timely communication, regular updates, and a predictable review timeline for such requests.

Apple strongly opposes these measures, arguing that they are “bad for our products and our European users.” The company claims the new regulations “wrap us in red tape, slowing Apple’s ability to innovate for users in Europe and forcing us to give away our new features for free to companies who don’t have to play by the same rules.”

Apple has also expressed concerns about the potential privacy risks associated with these interoperability mandates. The company argues these requirements could expose sensitive user data as third-party devices and developers gain access to iOS features.

This includes access to notifications containing personal messages or one-time codes, as well as Wi-Fi network details, which Apple argues could be exploited by third-party developers who lack the same privacy safeguards Apple enforces. The company fears that these new access points could be misused for data tracking and profiling, potentially circumventing GDPR protections.

Despite Apple’s objections, the EU remains committed to enforcing these regulations, with potential penalties of up to 10 percent of Apple’s global annual revenue for non-compliance.