Apple calls for repeal of EU digital rules, citing feature delays and security concerns

Apple has urged the European Union to scrap its landmark Digital Markets Act (DMA), arguing that the regulation is causing delays to new product features and exposing users to increased privacy and security risks.

The company’s request comes as the European Commission reviews the effectiveness of the DMA, which was introduced in 2022 to curb the power of major technology firms and promote competition.

The DMA requires large technology companies to open up their platforms to competitors and ensure interoperability with third-party devices and services. Apple claims that these requirements have forced it to postpone the rollout of several features in the EU, including iPhone mirroring to Mac and live translation with AirPods. The company says it has not found a way to comply with the bloc’s demands without compromising user data, and that its proposed safeguards have been rejected by the European Commission.

In a statement, Apple said, “It’s become clear that we can’t solve every problem the DMA creates. Over time, it’s become clear that the DMA isn’t helping markets. It’s making it harder to do business in Europe”.

Apple also highlighted concerns about the requirement to allow sideloading and alternative app marketplaces, which it argues could introduce threats such as scams, malware and pornography apps that were previously banned on its store. The company stated, “The DMA is leading to a worse experience for Apple users in the EU. It’s exposing them to new risks, and disrupting the simple, seamless way their Apple products work together”.

The European Commission has responded by reaffirming that compliance with the DMA is an obligation, not a choice. A spokesperson said, “Gatekeepers, like Apple, must allow interoperability of third-party devices with their operating systems”.

Apple’s call for repeal comes at a time of heightened transatlantic tensions over digital regulation, with US President Donald Trump’s administration having criticised the DMA and threatened to retaliate against European tech rules targeting American companies.

The EU fined Apple €500 million in April for breaching rules related to steering users to external payment options, a decision the company is appealing. Apple maintains that the DMA is leaving European consumers with fewer choices and creating an unfair competitive landscape.