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Apple has urged the European Union to scrap its landmark Digital Markets Act (DMA), arguing that the law poses security risks and results in a “worse experience” for consumers.
The US technology giant and the EU have frequently clashed over the DMA, which Brussels says is designed to make the digital economy in the 27-member bloc fairer and more competitive.
“The DMA should be repealed while a more appropriate, fit-for-purpose legislative instrument is put in place,” Apple said in a formal submission to the European Commission during a consultation on the legislation.
The latest dispute comes as President Donald Trump intensifies pressure on the EU over decisions affecting US tech companies, with leading industry figures — including Apple’s chief executive Tim Cook — strengthening ties with the White House since Trump’s return to office.
“It has become clear that the DMA is leading to a worse experience for Apple users in the EU,” the company said in a blog post accompanying its submission. “It is exposing them to new risks and disrupting the simple, seamless way their Apple products work together.”
Apple called for significant reforms if the law is not repealed, suggesting that enforcement should be handled by an independent European agency rather than the European Commission, which currently serves as the bloc’s executive body and digital regulator.
The DMA challenges Apple’s closed ecosystem, but EU officials argue that this is necessary to ensure a level playing field for competitors and to prevent market dominance.
The legislation imposes strict requirements on major tech firms, including the obligation to offer choice screens for web browsers and search engines to give users more options. Breaches of the DMA can lead to substantial fines — and in April 2025, Brussels fined Apple €500 million (£426 million) under the law, a decision the company is appealing.
Delays for European Users
Apple claims that allowing Europeans to download alternative app marketplaces exposes them to potential security threats. The company also cited a growing number of user complaints linked to DMA-related changes, although it did not provide specific figures.
In a 25-page submission, Apple argued that the law has already forced it to delay the rollout of certain features in the EU. For instance, it has not yet launched its new “live translation” feature — which enables users to hear another language through their AirPods — in Europe. The technology debuted in the United States this month, but Apple said it needs to carry out further engineering work to guarantee user privacy under EU rules.
The DMA also requires companies like Apple to ensure their products work seamlessly with third-party devices, such as non-Apple earphones.
The European Commission responded that it is “normal” for companies to require additional time to comply with new legislation and said it is actively working with them to ensure adherence.
Enforcement of the DMA began in March 2024, and the consultation for its first review concluded just before midnight on Wednesday.
Separately, Apple is also facing scrutiny under other EU competition regulations. In March 2024, Brussels imposed a €1.8 billion (£1.53 billion) fine on the company for breaching antitrust rules.
