Apple to open up iPhone, declares changes to App Store to comply with EU competition law
EU regulators have long raised alarms that Apple abuses its control over the App Store to stifle competition. The Silicon Valley company has argued that its gatekeeper role protects customers from malware, privacy breaches, and flawed apps.
Apple is responding to these concerns by making significant changes to its App Store in order to comply with European Union competition law. Under the new regulations that came into effect on March 7, users of iPhones and iPads in the EU will now be able to access alternative app stores and download a wide range of apps and services. Additionally, banks and shopping services will have the option to offer competing payment methods within their apps.
Furthermore, consumers purchasing new iPhones in the future will have the opportunity to choose alternative browsers, such as Chrome and Firefox, thanks to a new menu.
These changes mark an important shift in consumer technology, as European regulations reshape the digital landscape. It highlights how laws and regulations vary across different regions, resulting in diverse technology experiences for users.
While Apple has faced scrutiny for its strict control over the App Store, other countries have imposed their own restrictions on the company. In China, government regulations have compelled Apple to block certain apps, like virtual private networks (VPNs), which provide access to the unfiltered internet. However, in Europe, customers will now have access to alternative app stores and services.
The adjustments made by Apple are in response to the Digital Markets Act, a 2022 law aimed at curbing the power of large technology companies in sectors such as e-commerce, social media, and messaging. Amazon, Meta, Google, and Microsoft have also announced changes to comply with the new regulations.
In a statement, Phil Schiller, who leads the App Store, emphasized that these changes comply with the requirements of the Digital Markets Act and aim to protect EU users from increased privacy and security threats brought about by new regulations.
While European regulators have long criticized Apple’s control over the App Store, other parties have also weighed in on the matter. App developers like Spotify and Epic Games, the creator of Fortnite, have accused Apple of misusing its power by imposing high fees and mandating the use of specific technology.
These changes by Apple represent a departure from its previous stance and signify a willingness to adapt to regulatory requirements. However, it remains uncertain whether the announced revisions will satisfy European regulators who are determined to enforce compliance with the Digital Markets Act.
The European Commission, the executive branch of the European Union, declined to comment on Apple’s latest announcement.
Apple’s App Store sales amount to an estimated $24 billion worldwide annually, with Europe accounting for approximately 6 percent of that figure.
As the influence of regulations continues to shape the technology industry, companies like Apple are compelled to make adjustments to ensure compliance and meet the expectations of regulators and consumers alike.
