BRUSSELS, March 19 (Xinhua) -- The European Commission has outlined the steps that U.S. technology firm Apple must take to ensure better compatibility between its iOS operating system and third-party connected devices, according to a statement posted on its website on Wednesday.
Apple is required to allow smartwatches, headphones, or TVs from other producers to access iPhone features that interact with such devices, facilitate faster data transfers, and easier device setup.
The Commission said the measures would create new opportunities for device manufacturers to bring innovative products to the market, improving the user experience for consumers in Europe.
Additionally, Apple is asked to improve the transparency and efficiency of the process for developers seeking interoperability with iPhone and iPad features.
"Developers will benefit from a fast and fair handling of their interoperability requests. The measures will accelerate their ability to offer a wider choice to European consumers of innovative services and hardware that interoperate with iPhones and iPads," the Commission said.
The European Commission stressed that Apple should implement these changes in compliance with the EU's Digital Markets Act, which was enforced in 2022 to promote a fairer and more competitive digital economy.
The Commission started assessing Apple's compliance with the DMA last year. ■
