“It gets personal.” It is through this formula that Apple is alarmed by potential risks for the personal data of its European customers. In its sights: again and again, the Digital Markets Act, new legislation of the Twenty-seven which should make it possible to strengthen competition in digital technology. And against which the Cupertino group is increasing its attacks.
Interoperability obligations
This time, Apple is attacking the interoperability obligations provided for by the DMA. The European text notably allows companies to request access to certain features of the iOS system for their connected watches, headphones or virtual reality headsets. Access until now reserved for apple brand products.
“Some companies — whose data practices do not meet the high standards of European data protection law, supported by Apple — may attempt to exploit the interoperability provisions of the DMA to access sensitive user data ”, writes Apple in a document published online.
Meta in the viewfinder
To illustrate this risk, the company takes the example of Meta. A not insignificant choice when Mark Zuckerberg’s social network has been repeatedly sentenced to heavy fines under the General Data Protection Regulation. According to Apple, it has already filed 15 interoperability requests.
“In many cases, Meta seeks to alter functionality in ways that raise concerns about user privacy and security, and that appear completely unrelated to the actual use of [ses] external devices”, assures Apple. Enough, according to the group, to allow it to read messages and emails, scan photos or know the applications used by iPhone or iPad users.
Accusations immediately brushed aside by Meta. “What Apple is really saying is that they don’t believe in interoperability, assures the company. Every time Apple is accused of anti-competitive behavior, they defend themselves with privacy-related arguments that have no real basis.”
Brussels investigates
Apple’s complaints come as the European Commission launches a public consultation period on Apple’s proposed measures to meet interoperability obligations. This is part of a “procedure of specification” launched in September to establish a “constructive dialogue”.
These discussions could last up to six months. To put pressure on, the European executive recalls that it can impose fines of up to 10% of turnover. And that he can “on his own initiative” impose measures on “access controllers”, which includes Apple.
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