European lawmakers have agreed on a new set of rules aimed at curbing the dominance of major technology companies. The Digital Markets Act (DMA) will force giants such as Google and Apple to open up their services and platforms to other businesses, in what is being hailed as the EU's biggest regulatory move yet against anti-competitive behaviour.
EU antitrust chief Margrethe Vestager said the goal is simple: fair markets in the digital sector. She noted that large gatekeeper platforms have prevented businesses and consumers from benefiting from competitive digital markets. The law targets companies with a market value exceeding €75bn (£63bn), annual sales of €7.5bn, and at least 45 million monthly users.
Under the DMA, Apple would be required to open its App Store to third-party payment options, ending the forced use of Apple's own system. Google would have to offer Android users alternatives to its search engine, Google Maps, and Chrome browser. Apple would also have to allow users to uninstall its Safari browser and other pre-installed apps.
The rules also target messaging services like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and iMessage, requiring them to be interoperable with smaller competitors. German MEP Andreas Schwab, who led negotiations for the European Parliament, said the agreement ushers in a new era of tech regulation worldwide.
Both Apple and Google expressed concerns. Apple warned that some provisions could create privacy and security vulnerabilities, while Google said the rules might reduce innovation and consumer choice. The DMA now faces final votes in the European Parliament and by EU member state ministers.
