The European Commission has launched new proceedings under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) to guide Apple on how it should meet its interoperability requirements. These proceedings, focused on iOS and iPadOS, are set to conclude within six months.

Under the DMA, Apple is obligated to provide third parties with “free and effective interoperability” with its iOS and iPadOS hardware and software. The EU is now stepping in to clarify exactly what this entails for Apple.

In a statement, EU competition chief Margrethe Vestager said, “For the first time, we are using specification proceedings under the DMA to help Apple achieve effective compliance through constructive dialogue. We are committed to ensuring fair and open digital markets, and interoperability with operating systems like iOS is crucial in this effort.”

The first proceeding will explore how iOS devices like headphones, smartwatches, and virtual reality headsets interact, particularly in areas such as notifications, device pairing, and connectivity. The second proceeding will focus on how Apple handles requests from third-party developers who want their products to work seamlessly with iOS and iPadOS devices. Apple has already introduced secure ways for developers to enhance interoperability, but it warns that weakening its system protections could put European consumers at risk.

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The Commission will provide its initial findings to Apple, outlining what steps the company needs to take to meet the DMA’s interoperability requirements. If Apple fails to comply, it could face fines of up to 10% of its global annual revenue after a thorough investigation. Apple was designated as a “gatekeeper” last year, alongside other tech giants like Microsoft, Meta, Amazon, and Alphabet.