The European Union is pushing Apple to open its devices to more competition, requiring that non-Apple accessories like styluses and headphones can fully access features like pressure sensitivity, double-tap controls, and seamless pairing. These functions are currently exclusive to the Apple Pencil and AirPods, giving Apple a leg up over other brands. This comes as part of the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which lists Apple’s iPadOS as a key platform that must offer more choice to consumers.
This isn’t the first time EU regulations have nudged Apple to make changes. Earlier this year, the company launched a separate App Store for Europe that allows third-party app stores and easier sideloading of apps. This shift lets users download apps Apple might otherwise restrict, and it could also mean lower prices as third-party app stores compete on commission fees.
Apple has also expanded on its recent policy changes for default apps. While European users were first to gain the option to set non-Apple browsers as the default, Apple is now rolling out this option globally. With the upcoming iOS 18.2, users worldwide will be able to set third-party apps as their default for web browsing, email, and eventually, messaging and calls.
The EU will be monitoring Apple’s compliance with these DMA rules closely and may enforce penalties if the tech giant doesn’t meet the requirements. This push by the EU signals a growing effort to ensure that big tech platforms offer users more choice and flexibility, even on Apple’s famously closed devices.
It will certainly be interesting to see whether Apple widens the gulf between its products in the EU and the rest of the world, or whether it bites the bullet and opens things up for everyone.