After iOS, New EU Rules Have Identified iPadOS as a Digital ‘Gatekeeper’, Could Require Apple to Open The Platform For Consumers

Apple’s iOS platform was under scrutiny by the EU regulations last year and it made Apple open the software for third-party developers. However, this was only the beginning as the company’s iPadOS is now under pressure from the new EU tech regulations.

iPadOS has now been identified as a Digital Gatekeeper under the EU’s new tech rules, pushing Apple to fulfill the obligations in the next six months

The latest news coming out of the EU states that the antitrust officials in the region have identified Apple’s iPadOS as a major digital gatekeeper. iPadOS is Apple’s operating system for the iPad and the company has already implemented various changes in the platform related to the App Store and Safari. However, iPadOS is now gaining further traction from the EU’s new tech rules, which could allow it to be opened with more options.

As mentioned, the EU Commission demanded Apple to open iOS and implement changes to the platform to promote fair market competition. Ultimately, Apple was given a deadline to allow apps to be downloaded outside of the App Store. The changes also allowed users residing in the EU to install third-party app stores with their own payment methods. Apple is still under a lot of pressure from the EU to devise proper changes on its iOS platform and the updated additions are currently in the beta phase with iOS 17.5.

The Commission opened an investigation for iPadOS on the same day as iOS. Now, a press release highlights Apple as a digital gatekeeper for iPadOS and these are the reasons.

• Apple’s business user numbers exceeded the quantitative threshold elevenfold, while its end user numbers were close to the threshold and are predicted to rise in the near future.
• End users are locked-in to iPadOS. Apple leverages its large ecosystem to disincentivise end users from switching to other operating systems for tablets.
• Business users are locked-in to iPadOS because of its large and commercially attractive user base, and its importance for certain use cases, such as gaming apps.

Since Apple has a strong position in the digital market when it comes to app distribution and other digital services, the EU has given Apple a six-month notice to comply with the requirements under the Digital Markets Act. It appears that Apple would have to sort out the changes that are required by the DMA and implement them within the next few months. The company could adhere to a fine if it fails to meet the deadline. We will update you on the story as soon as additional details are available.