Apple Urges EU to Scrap Digital Markets Act Over Delays and Security Risks
Apple has called on the European Union to repeal its landmark Digital Markets Act (DMA), arguing that the regulation causes feature delays and increases risks for users. The company asked Brussels to design a new framework it believes would be more suitable for innovation and consumer safety.
EU Reviewing Effectiveness of the DMA
The request comes as the European Commission carries out its first review of the DMA. The law was created to curb the dominance of Big Tech, but the evaluation also looks at how it responds to emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence. Stakeholders, including Apple, were invited to provide feedback by September 24.
Apple Claims Features Delayed in Europe
Apple said EU customers are facing delays in new features such as iPhone Mirroring to Mac and Live Translation with AirPods. The company explained that DMA compliance requires additional engineering, making it harder to release these tools in Europe.
It also highlighted that location-based services in Apple Maps have been postponed because the law forces Apple to ensure compatibility with third-party apps before launch. Apple argued that its proposed safeguards to protect user data were rejected by the Commission.
Concerns Over Security and User Experience
Apple warned that the DMA has created a “riskier, less intuitive” app environment. It pointed to sideloading and third-party marketplaces, which can expose EU users to scams, malware, and inappropriate content that Apple previously banned from its App Store.
The company said: “It’s become clear that we can’t solve every problem the DMA creates. Over time, the DMA isn’t helping markets. It’s making it harder to do business in Europe.”
Commission and Market Response
The European Commission has not yet responded to Apple’s remarks. However, the law has already forced Apple to adjust its App Store fees and rules earlier this year in compliance with EU antitrust requirements.
While Brussels defends the regulation, critics, including the Trump administration, have long opposed the DMA, claiming it harms competition and innovation rather than protecting them.
