Apple and Meta are locked in a war over interoperability versus privacy

Apple and Meta are fighting in Europe over the balance between interoperability and privacy. Reuters Reports.

The battle focuses on the European Union Digital Markets Law (DMA), a competition regime that requires designated gatekeepers (including Apple and Meta) not to restrict competitors’ access to so-called core platform services. In Apple’s case, that means: iOS, iPadOS, App Store, and Safari. But its interest here seems to be mainly focused on iOS.

The iPhone maker has made no bones about its aversion to DMA, but its latest attacks target Meta, rather than the pan-EU law itself — as likely as it does with EU law enforcement. Look actively How DMA interoperability requirements should apply to Apple.

Apple revealed on Wednesday that Meta has filed more interoperability requests (15) than any other company, suggesting it is seeking far-reaching reach that could be bad for users’ privacy and security.

If all requests are approved, Apple warned that Meta’s apps (Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, Threads, and WhatsApp) could allow Meta to read all of their messages and emails on a user’s device, and see every phone call they make or receive. Track every app they use, scan all their photos, see their files and calendar events, record all their passwords, and more.

The social media giant responded by accusing Apple of making up privacy excuses “that have no basis in fact” to try to thwart access.