The European Commission has started two specification proceedings to assist Apple in complying with its interoperability obligations under the Digital Markets Act. Under the DMA, Apple must provide free and effective interoperability to third party developers and businesses with hardware and software features controlled by Apple’s operating systems iOS and iPadOS, designated under the DMA. The specification proceedings formalize the Commission’s regulatory dialogue with Apple on certain specific areas of Apple’s compliance with Article 6(7) DMA. The first proceeding focuses on several iOS connectivity features and functionalities, predominantly used for and by connected devices. The second proceeding focuses on the process Apple has set up to address interoperability requests submitted by developers and third parties for iOS and IPadOS. The Commission will conclude the proceedings within 6 months from their opening. In the course of these proceedings, the Commission will communicate its preliminary findings to Apple, where it will explain the measures the gatekeeper should take to effectively comply with the interoperability obligation of the DMA. A non-confidential summary of the preliminary findings and envisaged measures will be published to enable third parties to provide comments. These proceedings are without prejudice to the powers of the Commission to adopt a decision establishing non-compliance with any of the obligations laid down in the DMA by a gatekeeper, including the possibility to impose fines or periodic penalty payments. “Today is the first time we use specification proceedings under the DMA to guide Apple towards effective compliance with its interoperability obligations through constructive dialogue. We are focused on ensuring fair and open digital markets. Effective interoperability, for example with smartphones and their operating systems, plays an important role in this. This process will provide clarity for developers, third parties and Apple. We will continue our dialogue with Apple and consult third parties to ensure that the proposed measures work in practice and meet the needs of businesses,” said Margrethe Vestager, Executive Vice-President in charge of competition policy.