European regulators want Apple to open up device pairing, notifications and more to other companies’ products.
European regulators want Apple to open up device pairing, notifications and more to other companies’ products.
The European Commission has outlined how Apple must open up advantages of its device ecosystem to third-party accessories, as well as help developers with related requests.
As part of the Digital Markets Act that came into force last year, EU regulators have given Apple compliance instructions on how to expand interoperability between iPhones and devices made by other companies, like smartwatches, headphones, virtual reality headsets and more. This includes features like device pairing, notifications and connectivity, the commission specified.
The tech giant must pave the way for these devices to work with iOS and iPadOS at no cost to developers, as well as offer help when requested. The European Commission will work with Apple on compliance for these interoperability requirements through a pair of official proceedings that will wrap up next year.
