Apple plans massive changes to iOS and other products and services to meet EU requirements set out in the Digital Markets and Services Act. According to Bloomberg’s Mark GurmanCupertino will redesign its platform to “open key elements,” meaning iPhone and iPad users can download apps through app stores and third-party websites.
The changes are expected to take place only in the 27 member countries of the European Union and will lay the groundwork for an eventual expansion of services to other regions.
Plans for updates will likely arrive with iOS 17 in 2023, as companies have until 2024 to fully comply with the Digital Markets Act. The rollout also includes broader access to the NFC chip, camera, Find My network and AirTag and the introduction of new web browsing engines on iPhone and iPad.
Gurman clarified that Apple is still planning to charge developers, even if they don’t distribute their apps through the App Store.
The Digital Markets Act and Digital Services Act are bills intended to promote fair competition and better privacy protection and remove some intrusive targeted advertising. Apple’s shares mostly fall under the first act, which is expected to offer better interoperability with smaller rival services.
Let’s say Cupertino decides not to comply with the law that will take effect on January 1, 2024. In that case, regulators could impose a fine of 10% of total worldwide turnover, with 20% for repeat offenders.
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