EU Designates iPadOS as a Gatekeeper Service, Subjecting It to Stricter Regulations
The European Commission has concluded its nearly eight-month investigation into the market power of Apple’s iPadOS, determining that the operating system warrants more stringent oversight. As a result, iPadOS has been officially classified as a Gatekeeper service under the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA).
New Rules for iPadOS in Europe
With this designation, iPadOS will be required to adhere to a wide array of regulations aimed at providing users in Europe with greater freedom and choice. These rules include:
- Allowing users to download apps from sources other than the Apple App Store
- Enabling users to uninstall preloaded apps on their iPads
- Presenting users with choice screens to select default services, such as web browsers
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Should Apple fail to comply with the DMA’s requirements, the company could face severe penalties, with fines potentially reaching up to 10% of its global annual turnover. In extreme cases, the EU may even compel Apple to implement regional changes, such as the sideloading of apps on iPads in Europe.
Implications for the Tech Industry
While the DMA’s impact on Apple’s ecosystem remains uncertain, the EU’s decision to designate iPadOS as a Gatekeeper service is a significant development in the ongoing debate surrounding the regulation of large technology companies. This announcement comes just before Apple’s highly anticipated Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), where the company is expected to unveil its latest software updates, including iPadOS 17.
As the tech industry continues to evolve, the EU’s increased scrutiny of dominant platforms like iPadOS may serve as a catalyst for greater competition and innovation in the market.
3 Comments
EU’s crackdown continues—iPads, you’re next in line!
Looks like the EU’s not playing games anymore, iPads better shape up or ship out!
So, the EU is putting the tech giants on a tighter leash, huh? Interesting move.