Apple criticizes Meta’s interoperability requests saying they are unreasonable and impact users’ privacy and security. Apple claims that Meta’s actions are causing privacy concerns but Meta seems to stick saying that Apple’s claimed privacy grounds have no basis in reality. This indicates a clash between Apple and Meta and Apple is against the changes made by Meta as they could not compromise user security or privacy.
Apple warns of Meta’s unreasonable interoperability requests
In a statement to Reuters, Apple stated that Meta is seeking changes that raise concerns about the privacy and security of the users. Meta made 15 interoperability requests under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in the European Union and Apple criticizes them for making such changes. Apple claims that this request of Meta is completely unrelated to the actual use of Meta’s external device.
Apple raises a concern that if they grant all of the requests made by Meta, things can get very complicated. If the request is granted, apps including WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram could enable Meta to read messages and emails, see every phone call, track every app one uses, scan all the photos, log all the passwords, access their files and calendar events, and more. Well, this puts users’ privacy and security at risk.
The DMA would affect iOS and iPad as Apple will need to allow app developers to submit interoperability requests for hardware and software, which is why Apple is so much against it. Whenever a request is made Apple assesses them thoroughly to understand whether it is needed and falls under the appropriate article of DMA.
If the request is legitimate, Apple designs a solution for effective interoperability. However, Meta’s latest requests seem baseless to Apple, which is why it is criticized. Meta, on the other hand, comments that Apple does not actually believe in interoperability and that every time Apple is called out for its anticompetitive behavior, it defends itself on privacy grounds, which seems ridiculous.
Apple’s complaint reached the European Union and proposed measures that Apple should implement for improved interoperability. The European Union also suggests Apple give a better overview for the developers of iOS components that provide functionalities reserved for Apple, and to design a better process to make it easier to submit interoperability requests. Apple is also warned to stick to strict timelines and avoid delays in providing feedback on requested features.
Meta has made 15 interoperability requests so far, which is more than any other company and its Quest is Meta’s virtual reality headset, to own the platform that powers virtual reality (VR) and mixed reality (MR). However, Apple is strongly against this request since it concerns users’ privacy and security. As a solution, the European Union would require Apple to provide a clear description of the different phases, deadlines, regular updates, and feedback to the developers.
The strong opposition of Apple to Meta’s requests highlights the ongoing rivalry between the two tech giants. However, the criticism of Apple went in vain as the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) favored Meta and stated that dominant tech companies like Apple should allow competitors and app developers to incorporate their services.
Also, Meta is the only company that made the highest number seeking access to Apple’s technology stack. Apple has expressed concerns about fulfilling the requests as it would lead to Meta having access to sensitive user data, and Apple also pointed out the potential risks of granting those requests. Apple strongly believes that the users’ digital lives would be a turmoil if Meta were to access all their personal information.
The European Union is currently examining the issue and is seeking feedback from users, individuals, companies, and organizations until January 9 before finalizing a decision. Even though the final solution is not taken, the Commission advises Apple to provide clear timelines and criteria to evaluate interoperability requests and to maintain transparency in the process. This would mean that Apple would need to provide its rival companies access to iOS notifications and other functionalities available on devices like Apple Vision Pro and Apple Watch.
