
iOS 26.3 Introduces AirPods-Like Features to EU Devices
iOS 26.3 introduces AirPods-like pairing capabilities for third-party devices in the EU, complying with the Digital Markets Act (DMA).
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iOS 26.3 introduces AirPods-like pairing capabilities for third-party devices in the EU, complying with the Digital Markets Act (DMA).

The EU competition head, Margrethe Vestager, suggested that Apple may be required to allow iPhone owners to delete the Photos app as part of the Digital Markets Act (DMA) obligations. This demand would involve a massive change to the way iOS works, as the Photos app is integrated throughout the entire system. Some commentators have speculated that Apple might consider ceasing iPhone sales in EU countries due to potential fines, but EU commissioner Thierry Breton dismissed this as unrealistic. The interpretation of the DMA's requirements is seen as pushing the limits of what is reasonable and practical, especially considering the sensitivity of personal data involved in photo management.

The Digital Markets Act (DMA) is set to take effect in the European Union, requiring gatekeeper tech companies like Google, Apple, and TikTok-owner ByteDance to comply with strict rules aimed at preventing unfair business practices and increasing consumer choice in core platform services. While some companies have announced changes to comply with the DMA, others, like Apple, have raised concerns about potential risks and decreased user choices. The impact of the DMA will soon become clearer as gatekeepers share compliance reports, and its standards may extend beyond the EU's borders, potentially influencing other regions and countries.

The European Commission's recent decision to not designate Apple's iMessage as a gatekeeper under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) has no connection to Apple's announcement of supporting the RCS messaging standard. The assumption that the EU forced Apple's change of mind on RCS is unfounded, as the DMA does not mention RCS. Instead, Apple's decision to support RCS is believed to be influenced by Chinese government regulations requiring 5G devices to support RCS for certification, reflecting China's effective regulatory approach compared to the EU.