Apple is still in the process of modifying iOS, in the European Union, so that its platform complies with the rules of the Digital Markets Act. But from now on, the Cupertino company will also have to be vigilant regarding iPadOS. The iPad’s operating system was initially not affected by DMA. However, in April, the European Commission finally decided to include iPadOS in the list of affected platforms.
iPadOS is also affected by the DMA (and accessories are affected)
“Our market research showed that, although it does not meet the thresholds, iPadOS is an important gateway that many businesses rely on to reach their customers”Brussels indicated. For its part, Apple has already announced a series of changes for iPadOS, in the EU, in order to make the operating system compliant with the DMA. For example, like iPhones, iPads used in the European Union are open to stores competing with the App Store.
In a press release published on November 4, the European Commission put additional pressure on Apple. “In particular, Apple must allow users to set the default web browser of their choice on iPadOS, allow other application stores on its operating system and allow accessories, such as headphones and smart pens, to efficiently access iPadOS features”we read in this press release. In other words, Brussels will not only observe Apple’s behavior in the software field, but also in the iPad accessories market.
An evaluation in progress
According to the Commission’s explanations, Apple has already published a document in which it details the various measures taken to make iPadOS compliant with the Digital Markets Act. And Brussels will now evaluate these measures to determine whether they are sufficient. In the event of non-compliance, the Commission explains that it “will take formal enforcement action as provided for in the DMA.”
- The European Commission has decided to include iPadOS in the list of services affected by the DMA, even if this platform does not meet the thresholds provided for by the legislation
- Apple has already announced compliance measures and the Commission must now assess whether these measures are sufficient
- In a press release, Brussels indicates that Apple also has new obligations towards manufacturers of iPad accessories
