Apple has publicly criticized Meta, claiming that the company’s repeated requests for access to its proprietary software tools could jeopardize user privacy and safety, according to a report by Reuters. This dispute highlights the growing competition between the two tech giants.
Under the European Digital Markets Act (DMA), which came into effect last year, Apple is required to open its services to competitors and app developers to avoid fines that could reach up to 10% of its annual global revenue.
According to Apple’s latest report, Meta has submitted 15 interoperability requests, surpassing all other companies. These requests aim to gain access to Apple’s software tools.
Apple responded to these demands by stating, “Meta seeks changes that threaten privacy and security, without a clear link to the use of Apple devices.”
The company also warned that granting these requests could provide Meta with unprecedented access to user messages, calls, app data, photos, files, and passwords—raising significant concerns. Apple referenced previous privacy violations that led to fines imposed on Meta in Europe. Meta has yet to comment on these allegations.
European Commission’s Role
Separately, the European Commission, which oversees how Apple complies with the DMA, has published preliminary findings on the matter. It has set a deadline of January 9th for individuals, companies, and organizations to submit feedback on Apple’s proposed measures.
The Commission emphasized that Apple must establish clear standards and timelines to process interoperability requests from app developers. Additionally, it called for a neutral mechanism to resolve technical disputes.
What is Interoperability?
Interoperability refers to the ability of different systems, products, or devices to work seamlessly together and exchange data efficiently, regardless of technical differences. For Meta, this would mean enabling its services—such as Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp—to interact more deeply and cohesively with Apple’s devices and operating systems than is currently allowed.
What’s Next?
The European Commission is expected to deliver its final decision in March on whether Apple complies with the DMA.
This ongoing legal and technical standoff underscores the broader tensions between tech giants striving for dominance in a competitive market while balancing user privacy and regulatory compliance.
