For years, Apple has been known for its tightly controlled ecosystem. But now, it seems the European Union is putting pressure on the tech giant to break down its walled garden and embrace a more open, interoperable approach. In a bold move, the EU has issued a series of recommendations that could transform how Apple’s iPhones and iPads interact with third-party devices and services. The stakes are high, and the changes requested could mark a major shift in the tech landscape.
The EU’s Bold Push for Interoperability
On December 18, 2025, the European Union unveiled its latest move in the ongoing battle for digital market fairness. At the heart of the initiative is the Digital Markets Act (DMA), a landmark regulation aimed at leveling the playing field in the digital world. And this time, it’s Apple’s tightly controlled iOS and iPadOS ecosystems that are in the crosshairs.
In a sweeping set of recommendations, Brussels is demanding that Apple make significant changes to its operating systems. The goal is to allow more interoperability between Apple devices and third-party products, including everything from smartwatches to wireless headphones. Essentially, Apple would need to open up its systems to work seamlessly with the wider tech world—a big departure from the company’s historically closed approach.
This isn’t just about opening the door to competition; it’s about transforming the very architecture of iOS and iPadOS to be more inclusive of devices that aren’t made by Apple. The EU is urging Apple to make its devices more adaptable to external technologies, which could have a profound effect on how users experience their devices.
What Changes Are Being Demanded?
The changes on the table are as bold as they are technical. The EU wants Apple to make its devices work better with third-party products by allowing features that have traditionally been exclusive to the Apple ecosystem. For instance, Apple would need to enable automatic audio switching, Bluetooth connectivity retention, and even the enrichment of notifications for non-Apple devices.
One significant result of these changes? Imagine being able to receive messages on a Garmin smartwatch just as easily as you would on an Apple Watch—a long-requested feature that could level the playing field between Apple and its competitors. The interconnectivity could even extend to Apple’s exclusive features, like AirDrop, AirPlay, and Wi-Fi sharing, all of which could be opened up to non-Apple devices.
These updates could change the way consumers use their devices, offering greater flexibility and freedom of choice when selecting gadgets that work with their smartphones and tablets.
Apple’s Response: Privacy and Security Concerns
As expected, Apple isn’t taking these demands lying down. In response to the EU’s call for change, the company has published a white paper arguing that the proposed measures could jeopardize the security and privacy of its users. Apple’s argument is clear: opening up iOS and iPadOS to third-party products could create vulnerabilities, especially when it comes to protecting sensitive user data.
Apple specifically points to Meta, accusing the company of potentially using this new level of access to gather more user data, which Apple argues could put consumers at risk. “The risks would be considerable and almost impossible to mitigate,” says Apple, as it defends its tight control over its ecosystem.
However, critics, including Meta, argue that Apple is using privacy concerns as a smokescreen to maintain its anti-competitive practices. According to Meta and other industry players, Apple’s approach isn’t about protecting users—it’s about protecting its market dominance and stifling innovation from competitors.
The Stakes: What Happens Next?
This conflict is more than just a corporate dispute—it has serious implications for the entire tech industry. If Apple doesn’t comply with the EU’s recommendations, the company could face massive fines. In fact, the penalties could reach up to 10% of Apple’s global sales, a staggering amount that would force the company to reconsider its current approach.
The EU has given Apple and other affected companies until January 9, 2025, to respond to these recommendations, with a final decision expected by March 2025. If Apple fails to implement the changes, the consequences could be far-reaching—not only for the company but also for the broader tech ecosystem.
As the deadline approaches, all eyes will be on Apple to see whether the company will shift its strategy and embrace a more open, competitive approach—or whether it will double down on its tightly controlled ecosystem, risking the wrath of regulators and competitors alike.