European Technology Commissioner Henna Virkkunen and Apple CEO Tim Cook held a video call on Monday to discuss matters of mutual interest, a European Commission spokesperson confirmed. The spokesperson characterized the discussion as “constructive” but did not provide specific details on the topics covered.
The meeting occurs within the broader context of the European Union’s implementation of new digital regulations, primarily the Digital Markets Act (DMA). The DMA is a comprehensive piece of legislation designed to regulate the operations of large technology companies designated as “gatekeepers.” The European Commission, the EU’s executive arm, is responsible for enforcing these rules across the 27-member bloc.
In September 2023, the Commission officially designated Apple as a gatekeeper for its iOS operating system, the Safari web browser, and its App Store. This designation carries specific obligations intended to create a more open digital marketplace. Companies subject to the DMA were required to be in full compliance with its provisions by March 7, 2024.
The requirements under the DMA mandate that gatekeepers allow third-party services to interoperate with their own. For Apple, this includes enabling users to install applications from alternative app stores, use third-party payment systems within apps, and choose default applications other than those provided by Apple.
In response to the legislation, Apple announced a series of changes to its software and business practices for users within the European Union. These changes included new frameworks and APIs for developers to offer alternative app marketplaces on iOS and new fee structures for apps distributed both on and off Apple’s App Store.
Following the compliance deadline, EU officials began assessing the measures implemented by designated companies. In late March, the European Commission announced it had opened non-compliance investigations into several technology companies, including Apple. The Commission’s stated focus regarding Apple pertains to its rules on steering, which involve the ability of app developers to direct consumers to offers outside of the company’s App Store, and the design of the choice screen for its Safari web browser.
The discussion between Virkkunen and Cook represents ongoing communication between EU regulators and technology executives as the new digital framework is enforced. Neither the European Commission nor Apple has released further statements on the content of the call.
