In its fight against the Digital Markets Act, Apple is highlighting an example that it considers particularly dangerous to support its defense. She accuses Meta of doing everything to seize its users’ data by relying on new European regulations. Although this statement does not surprise anyone, it nevertheless remains difficult to verify.
Tensions build around the DMA
The European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), designed to limit abuses by technology monopolies, has become the scene of a standoff between Meta and Apple. While the text aims to ensure fair competition, Apple accuses Meta of abusively exploiting this legislation to access sensitive data of iPhone users.
Meta increases interoperability requests
According to a report from ReutersMeta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, filed 15 interoperability requests under the DMA, a figure much higher than that of its competitors. These requests, intended to allow access to certain Apple proprietary technologies, are in theory intended to ensure a level playing field between the companies.
However, Apple has expressed serious concerns about the scope of these requests. In a press release, the Apple brand claims that Meta seeks disproportionate access to sensitive user data and features, going well beyond the actual needs to operate devices like Meta Ray-Ban Stories smart glasses or headsets. Meta Quest virtual reality.
Apple’s privacy concerns
Apple, known for its commitment to data privacy, sharply criticizes Meta’s demands. In a statement, Apple lists the risks associated with the expanded access that Meta is demanding. Meta could have access to all private communications stored on the iPhone, such as messages and emails.
Additionally, call and app monitoring would allow Meta to track every phone call and app used by the user. Finally, access to sensitive data includes the ability to scan photos, files, calendar events, and even saved passwords.
Apple says these requests are not necessary to enable interoperability with Meta products, and calls them a direct threat to user security and privacy.
A long-running conflict between Apple and Meta
Tensions between the two companies are not new. With the introduction of features like App Tracking Transparency (ATT), Apple has already undermined Meta’s business model, based on the massive collection of data for targeted advertising.
Meta, for its part, has regularly criticized Apple’s initiatives, alleging that they limit competition and aim to protect its own ecosystem. In the past, Meta has even been accused of using controversial practices, such as deploying a VPN that collected user data, which led Apple to ban this application.
What does the DMA say?
The Digital Markets Act requires large technology companies, identified as “gatekeepers”, to open their ecosystems to third-party players under penalty of sanctions of up to 10% of their annual global turnover.
However, the implementation of this law poses complex questions about the legitimacy of requests and potential risks for users, particularly with regard to privacy protection. Apple has warned that giving in to all of Meta’s demands could compromise the security of its ecosystem.
Neither Meta nor the European Commission have yet publicly responded to Apple’s statements. This situation illustrates the growing challenges linked to the regulation of technological giants. The EU must find a balance between competition and user protection. Apple wants to preserve its reputation for confidentiality while respecting the law, and Meta must justify its requests for access in the face of accusations of abuse.
