The rivalry between Apple and Metaanother of the technological giants, has reached a new level in Europe, with crossed accusations around the Digital Markets Act (DMA). While Meta demands that Apple profoundly change its interoperability system, the Californian company warns that these requests could endanger the privacy and security of millions of users.
As a result of this confrontation, the relationship between both companies seems to deteriorate enormously, and we will see if their relations end up breaking down and we, the users, are the ones who pay the consequences.
Apple and the European Union: the endless war
Apple has publicly accused Meta of making “unreasonable” requests under the Digital Markets Act, a regulation that seeks to level the playing field for competition on digital platforms. According to the Cupertino company, Meta has submitted 15 applicationsmore than any other company, and many of them would seriously compromise the privacy and security of users.
Speaking to Reuters, Apple explained that several of these requests seek changes to iOS and iPadOS that go beyond the use of external devices such as Meta and Meta Quest smart glasses. “Meta wants to access data that would allow messages and emails to be read, record phone callstrack app usage, scan photos, explore files and calendar events, and even collect passwords,” Apple said.
These accusations come at a crucial time, as the European Commission has published how Apple must now act to improve interoperability. Authorities demand that the Cupertino company provide developers with more transparent access to iOS, facilitate the process of submitting interoperability requests and meet stricter deadlines to avoid delays in implementing changes.
Meta counterattacks and accuses Apple
Meta’s response has not been long in coming. In a statement, the company behind Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp accused Apple of using the privacy as an excuse to maintain a closed ecosystem.
This confrontation highlights the tensions between big tech and European regulators, who seek to ensure that platforms like iOS and Android offer a level playing field for developers. Under the DMA, Apple is required to review all interoperability requests and find effective solutions if they meet legal requirements. However, the company assures that the integrity of its operating systems remains a priority and that it is not always possible to guarantee interoperability that respects its security standards.
Meanwhile, the European Commission has opened a consultation with interested third parties to determine whether the proposed measures are sufficient to ensure an effective interoperability process.
The case not only puts the relationship between Apple and Meta in the spotlight, but also the balance between privacy, competition and technological innovation. While European consumers could benefit from a more open ecosystemthe possibility of compromising your security and privacy raises questions about how far the DMA’s demands should go.
As the confrontation progresses, it becomes clear that the fight between Apple and Meta is more than a simple commercial disagreement: it is a fight for the future of control in the digital age.
