The European Commission has announced that it is now officially evaluating whether iPadOS, which powers Apple’s iPad devices, complies with the Digital Markets Act (DMA).
The DMA mandates that iPadOS must permit the selection of a default web browser, accommodate alternative app stores, and support accessory ecosystems such as headphones and smart pens within the European region.
The iPad was designated as a gatekeeper platform in April, which means it falls under DMA regulations. At that point, the Commission indicated that Apple had roughly six months to ensure the iPad meets compliance standards. Now, six months later, we have the formal announcement regarding the assessment of iPadOS.
Similar to iOS on the iPhone, iPadOS 18 allows users in the European Union to access third-party app stores (or app marketplaces, as Apple prefers to call them) and choose a default web browser other than Apple’s. Epic Games has been at the forefront of this movement, utilizing the popularity of Fortnite and the Epic Games Store to push for alternative app distribution on iPhones and iPads.
It appears that iPadOS is already making strides towards compliance with the initial two points outlined by the EU.
However, there have not been noticeable updates that facilitate interoperability with third-party accessories such as “headphones and smart pens,” which would likely open the door for more competition against Apple’s AirPods and Apple Pencil.
It remains uncertain whether Apple plans to introduce software changes soon to address these requirements or if the company intends to approach the situation differently. Apple may already consider its current support for third-party Bluetooth accessories sufficient. While non-Apple headphones and styluses are compatible with the iPad, they do not integrate as seamlessly as the first-party offerings provided by AirPods and Apple Pencil.
We will need to wait for the European Union’s decisions, which are anticipated to be released sometime next year. Should Apple be found non-compliant, the company could face enforcement actions, including significant fines.
