The EU is studying the designation of 2 new Apple products for increased regulatory oversight

The European Union is considering designating Apple Ads and Apple Plans under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), signaling increased regulatory scrutiny of the tech giant's services. This move underscores the EU's commitment to curbing the power of large digital platforms and ensuring fair competition in the digital marketplace. It potentially adds more Apple services to the list of those facing stricter compliance measures. The Digital Markets Act targets "gatekeepers" – companies with significant market power – and imposes specific obligations to prevent anti-competitive practices. If Apple Ads and Apple Plans are designated, they will be subject to these obligations, which include increased data sharing, interoperability requirements, and restrictions on self-preferencing. This would mean Apple must open up these services to third-party providers. This potential designation has significant implications for Apple and its competitors. It could force Apple to change how it operates its advertising and mapping services, potentially impacting its revenue streams and market dominance. Conversely, it could create opportunities for smaller competitors to gain market share by offering services that integrate with Apple's platforms. The European Commission's decision will be a crucial step in enforcing the DMA. The DMA aims to foster a more open and competitive digital environment within the EU.