Apple Battles EU Rules to Keep Its Magic Closed Garden Intact

Apple, one of the world's leading technology companies, is currently in a heated debate with European regulators over how its products interact with those from other brands. The company is famous for its 'walled garden' approach, which means Apple devices and software are designed to work best with each other, creating a unique and seamless experience for users. Apple claims this system keeps things safe and high quality, but European officials argue that it unfairly blocks competition and limits consumer choice.

The conflict has grown more intense since the European Union introduced the Digital Markets Act (DMA), a law aimed at making big tech companies more open and fair. The DMA, which started in 2022 and began to be enforced in 2024, requires companies like Apple to make their devices compatible with products from other brands. For example, Apple must allow notifications from third-party smartwatches, not just the Apple Watch, and let other platforms use features like AirDrop to send and receive content. Supporters of the DMA, such as Sébastien Pant from BEUC, a group representing many consumer organizations, say these changes will give people more choices and help break down the barriers that have existed for years in the digital market.

Apple, however, is pushing back. The company recently launched its new AirPods Pro 3, which include a 'Live Translation' feature that lets users hear translations in their preferred language. But Apple announced that this feature will not be available in Europe for now, saying it relies on close cooperation between AirPods and iPhones, and making it work with other brands would require extra engineering to maintain privacy and security. Apple executives argue that the EU's rules threaten the special experience their products offer and could make Apple just like any other company. The European Commission, which enforces these rules, recently rejected Apple's request to cancel most of its order requiring iPhones to work with other devices. Apple has also warned the UK's competition authority not to follow the EU's example. Other tech companies, like Meta, have delayed launching new features in Europe because of the DMA. The debate continues, with Apple claiming the rules hurt innovation and user experience, while European regulators insist they are necessary to create a fairer digital market.