In a meeting held on Tuesday, EU Industry Commissioner Thierry Breton pressed Apple CEO Tim Cook to unlock Apple’s digital market, encompassing both hardware and software, to competitors. Following the discussion in Brussels, Breton conveyed his belief that consumers utilizing an Apple iPhone should have access to a range of competitive services, including electronic wallets, browsers, and app stores. Apple, however, declined to provide a statement on the matter.
The recent adoption of the Digital Markets Act (DMA) has established a set of guidelines for Apple and other tech giants, outlining permissible and prohibited practices aimed at bolstering market competition. Breton emphasized that while Apple had previously cited security and privacy concerns as reasons for its closed ecosystem, the European Union must prioritize innovation without compromising on these vital aspects.
The EU Commissioner Breton’s remarks come in the wake of mounting complaints from Apple’s competitors, who allege that the company’s closed system enables it to wield undue influence over which apps gain prominence on iPhones and iPads. Moreover, the European Commission has asserted that Apple’s practices in accrediting payment methods within the App Store have stifled competition.
Despite some legislative strides to encourage competitive practices and foster greater accessibility in the digital sphere of Apple, Breton’s proposals are likely to face resistance, given Apple’s steadfast commitment to preserving the closed nature of its market. Ultimately, Breton is urging Apple not only to adhere to the DMA’s provisions, but also to dismantle the barriers of its self-contained ecosystem.
These calls come amid ongoing antitrust investigations, including those instigated by the European Commission in 2020. The response from Apple to this appeal for a more open market for its digital products remains uncertain, leaving the industry and consumers alike eager to see how the tech giant will navigate this pivotal juncture.
Source: Reuters
