The EU could force Apple to open iPadOS

Apple’s iPad is now subject to EU DMA rules, joining other tech products like Safari, iOS, and the App Store. The European Commission has identified iPadOS as a gatekeeper, prompting concerns about user lock-in and lack of competition. Apple has six months to comply with the regulations.

Investigation confirms iPadOS as gatekeeper software, emphasizing fairness on the platform. Apple must now ensure compliance by not favoring its own services and allowing third-party interoperability, potentially leading to the arrival of third-party app stores on iPads in Europe.

Apple plans to engage with the European Commission to meet DMA requirements, despite concerns about privacy and data security risks. Legal action has been taken against the EU, with hearings scheduled for later this year. An event on May 7 will unveil new iPads, including an OLED iPad Pro and updates to the iPad Air.