As Apple’s legal processes in the European Union approaches the end, the company can be stripped of this file without penalty. According to the information transferred by Reuters; The European Commission will soon complete the review of whether iPhone users are prevented about changing the default scanners. Apple, the Digital Markets Law (DMA), which comes into force in accordance with the arrangements of this investigation may not face any sanctions in this investigation said. This development is associated with the adequate of the steps taken by Apple against regulations in Brussels.
The Commission evaluated Apple in detail within the framework of regulations aimed at ensuring that users can make more free choices on Android and iOS platforms. In particular, the extent to which the use of browsers other than Safari was facilitated in the iOS operating system was the basis of this investigation. In this context, Apple started to offer users with alternative browser options more clearly and integrated the relevant routing screens into the iOS system. These changes are thought to have the necessary steps to adapt to DMA.
However, Apple’s relationship with Europe is not limited to the browser preference file. It is known that the company is facing a separate investigation due to the App Store policies. In this second file, the extent to which Apple’s application developers inform users about alternative payment methods is examined. In case of direct in -app purchases out of the App Store, Apple’s blocking systems are closely focused by the commission.
The Digital Markets Law is not only for user preferences; It also aims to protect the commercial freedom of developers. At this point, Apple’s policies have become an important issue of discussion how competition for smaller software manufacturers. Apple’s structure, which increased dependence on the system of repayment, has been a target of criticism of major developers such as Spotify and Epic Games. The European Commission has deepened the process, taking into account these criticisms.
In addition to all these, commodity is also subjected to a separate examination under the same law. The company’s subscription model, which offers the company in Europe, was contrary to DMA on the grounds that it violated user preference freedoms. Because of this application, it is suggested that Meta may face a penalty that may exceed $ 1 billion. It is noteworthy that giant companies such as Apple testing legislation with such new business models, but EU institutions do not tolerate it.
On the Apple front, the new browser selection screen opened to users in Europe with the iOS 17.4 update stands out. This update allows iPhone users the opportunity to choose from various browsers during the first installation. The removal of Safari from being the only alternative is seen as an important change in terms of user experience. The Commission considers that these regulations are in compliance with the principles of clarity and transparency required by the law.
Will Apple maintain this flexibility?
However, it is not yet clear that Apple will maintain this flexibility in future software updates. Temporary harmony with regulations may not be sufficient in the eyes of the Commission. For this reason, the company is expected to establish systems that will permanently protect their user and developer freedoms. It is stated that the European Commission will continue to closely monitor the company’s attitude.
DMA aims to control the technology giants not only the dominance of the market, but also the freedom of users on platforms. The default settings or payment guidances that limit user preferences are now subject to more strict inspection. The adaptation of companies like Apple to this new order becomes compulsory to continue to operate in the European market. Although some files are closing unpunished, others show that companies may face greater sanctions.
Such comprehensive inspections of the European Union point to a period in which the rules are redefined in the technology sector. Such decisions taken in favor of the user are likely to be an example for other major markets. Apple and similar companies will continue to be closely monitored whether they internalize these regulations in the long run. Every step to be taken especially in user preferences and transparency issues will be decisive in the permanent shaping of this new era.