Apple is pushing back against a major regulatory milestone in the European Union, appealing interoperability requirements imposed by the Digital Markets Act (DMA). The company filed its challenge with the EU's General Court in Luxembourg on May 30, targeting the European Commission's directive to open up iOS to increased third-party device access and data sharing.

EU Digital Markets Act: Targeting Interoperability

The Digital Markets Act is a wide-reaching regulatory initiative intended to increase competition and consumer choice among large technology platforms, which the EU designates as "gatekeepers." Since 2024, Apple has been subject to several DMA mandates, including requirements on App Store payment links and alternate browser engines. The latest provision, confirmed by the European Commission in March 2025, mandates that Apple provide interoperability with rival devices — not just within its own hardware ecosystem.

Key aspects of these interoperability rules include:

• Allowing third-party smartwatches, headphones, and VR headsets to integrate