Meta’s ongoing requests for interoperability have drawn criticism from Apple.
On Wednesday, Apple criticized Platforms for its frequent requests to access the software tools of the i maker, raising concerns about potential privacy and security risks for users.
Under the European Union’s landmark Digital Markets Act, which came into force last year, Apple, one of the leading phone manufacturers, is required to enable for competitors and app developers.
If it to do so, Apple could face fines of up to 10% of its global annual revenue.
To date, Meta has submitted 15 interoperability requests, surpassing any other company, for potentially extensive access to Apple’s technology stack, according to a report by the latter.
“Apple stated that in many instances, Meta attempting to modify functionality in a manner that raises concerns about user privacy and security, and that seems to be entirely to actual of Meta external devices, such as Meta smart glasses and Meta Quests.”
Meta Quest is Meta’s virtual reality headset, representing the company’s ambition to dominate the computational that powers virtual reality (VR) and mixed reality (MR) devices.
“If Apple were compelled to grant all of these requests, Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp enable Meta to access all of a user’s messages and emails on their device, monitor every phone call they make or, track every app use, scan all their photos, view their files and calendar events, log all of their passwords, and more,” Apple stated.
It cited Meta’s privacy fines in recent years as a for concern.
“Apple’s stance essentially indicates a lack of belief interoperability,” a Meta spokesperson remarked. “Whenever Apple is accused of anticompetitive conduct, they themselves on privacy grounds that are unfounded in reality.”
Separately, European Commission, which September announced it would how Apple must open up to competitors, its preliminary on the issue late Wednesday evening. It has given individuals, companies, and organizations until January 9 to provide on its proposed measures Apple.
The measures would mandate Apple to offer a detailed description of the various phases, deadlines, and the criteria and considerations it would apply or take into when evaluating from app developers.
Apple should provide developers with regular updates and engage in feedback exchanges regarding the effectiveness of proposed interoperability solution. Additionally, should be a fair and impartial conciliation mechanism to address any technical disagreements with Apple.
The Commission also outlined the measures for Apple to ensure interoperability with all functionalities of the iOS notifications feature available to Apple Watch, Apple Vision Pro, and any future Apple-connected physical devices for its competitors.
A decision by the executive, which serves as the competition in the 27 block, on whether Apple complies with the DMA’s interoperability provision is anticipated in March next year.