LONDON — Apple has raised concerns regarding Meta Platforms’ requests for access to its operating software, highlighting that such requests pose a risk to user privacy. This conflict has emerged as the European Union intensifies its push for Apple to foster compatibility with products from competing tech firms.
The executive branch of the EU is currently developing “interoperability” guidelines as part of its new framework aimed at digital competition. The proposed measures seek to ensure that various devices, including smartwatches, as well as features such as wireless file transfers, can operate seamlessly with iPhones, akin to the native connectivity seen between Apple Watches and AirDrop.
The framework, known as the Digital Markets Act (DMA), is designed to foster equitable competition within the digital landscape while preventing major tech companies from monopolizing markets. Recently, the commission released draft measures outlining how Apple should facilitate compatibility between its iOS operating system and other technology solutions.
In reaction to these developments, Apple expressed that it is alarmed by the possibility that certain firms, particularly those with data practices that don’t align with the high privacy standards mandated by EU legislation—standards that Apple supports—might exploit the interoperability provisions of the DMA to gain access to sensitive user information.
Specifically, Apple pointed out Meta’s repeated requests, totaling at least 15, for extensive access to its technology infrastructure. The company warned that if these requests were approved, apps like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp could potentially access a treasure trove of user data, including reading all messages and emails, monitoring phone calls, tracking app usage, scanning photographs, examining files and calendar events, and logging passwords.
Meta, which controls platforms like Facebook and Instagram, has countered Apple’s assertions. A spokesperson for Meta suggested that Apple’s stance reflects a reluctance to support interoperability, stating, “What Apple is really saying is that they do not advocate for interoperability. Whenever Apple faces scrutiny over anticompetitive actions, they use privacy justifications that are unfounded.”
The Brussels-based European Commission’s proposal advocates for a system built upon Apple’s current “request-based process,” wherein developers can seek access to various functionalities. Under these new guidelines, Apple is expected to appoint a “dedicated contact” to oversee requests and provide updates, along with a mechanism for “fair and impartial conciliation” to resolve technical disagreements.
The commission is currently soliciting feedback from the public, which is due by January 9. This includes input from any companies that have previously approached Apple for interoperability access or are considering such actions in the future.