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Apple Executive Slams Brussels Over Interoperability Demands

By  |  September 24, 2025

Greg Joswiak, Apple’s senior vice president of worldwide marketing, has sharply criticised European regulators following the company’s penalty under the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). Speaking during the launch of Apple’s newest products, Joswiak voiced his frustration with the European Commission’s (EC) approach, according to BBC News and The Irish Independent.

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    The executive argued that the EC’s actions pose risks to consumers, repeating Apple’s long-standing stance that tighter rules on its ecosystem would undermine innovation and weaken security. Per Reuters, he described the regulatory clampdown as “dangerous,” highlighting concerns that forcing greater openness in Apple’s services could expose users to harm.

    Apple’s clash with Brussels intensified in April when the company was fined €570 million for practices the EC found in violation of the DMA. The fine, Reuters noted, stemmed from Apple’s restrictive approach to its platform — often referred to as a “walled garden” — which EU officials argue curtails competition. The company has repeatedly defended its strategy as essential to ensuring safety and delivering high-quality user experiences.

    Read more: Apple Faces Lawsuit Over Alleged Use of Copyrighted Books to Train AI

    According to The Irish Independent, Joswiak addressed the issue during a press briefing in California. Tensions reportedly escalated further after regulators prevented Apple from rolling out a new live translation feature for its latest AirPods. This setback came just as Apple was unveiling its new product line globally.

    Adding to the strain, BBC News reported that on 19 September the EC rejected Apple’s request to ease interoperability requirements for iPhones — the same day the company’s new devices hit store shelves across multiple countries. The timing underscored the growing friction between Apple and the European regulator as both sides remain entrenched in their positions.

    Source: Tahawul Tech