EU Reminds Apple of Importance of Device and Software Compatibility with Third-Party Developments

The European Commission (EU) reminded Apple Inc. of the need to ensure compatibility between the company's devices and iOS operating system with third-party products in accordance with a new Digital Markets Act (DMA), which is now in effect within the EU.

Specifically, this refers to the compatibility of iPhones with "smart" watches, earphones, and virtual reality headsets developed by other manufacturers.

"As companies producing these products depend on effective compatibility with smartphones and their operating systems, such as iOS," the EU said.

The regulator has launched a special procedure to assist Apple in meeting the requirements of the DMA, which took effect last November. Within this procedure, it will also assess how Apple plans to consider requests from developers for interaction between third-party products and iOS and iPadOS.

"It is crucial that the evaluation process is transparent and fair," the regulator noted.

Currently, Apple offers limited access to its voice assistant Siri to third-party developers, and blocks them from using its own contactless payment system, which is only accessible to Apple Pay users, according to Market Watch.

A spokesperson for Apple responded to a media query stating that providing broader access to iOS increases the risk of harm to users by giving potential attackers greater access to their devices.

On Thursday's trading session, Apple stock gained 3.8%. Over the past year, its value has increased nearly 19% from its starting point.