Apple vs EU: DMA legal battle reaches new level at Luxembourg hearing

Apple appeared in Luxembourg for one of its most consequential challenges to the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). The hearing marks a new phase in Apple’s legal fight over obligations that reshape how iOS and the App Store operate in the EU. According to early reports, Apple is contesting several core provisions, arguing the rules are disproportionate and could undermine user security and platform integrity.

Background: What the DMA does

Adopted in 2023, the DMA targets so‑called gatekeepers—large platforms that wield significant control over digital markets. For Apple, the law touches areas such as app distribution, steering (communication and payment links outside an app), interoperability, and access for third‑party services (e.g., browser engines). The aim is to increase contestability and fairness for developers and consumers across the EU.

• App distribution and choice: Measures intended to open the iOS ecosystem to alternative app distribution paths and reduce lock‑in.
• Steering and payments: Rules that allow developers to inform users about alternative offers or payment options outside the platform.
• Interoperability and access: Requirements that can affect APIs, default settings, and enabling third‑party browser engines.

Apple’s and the EU’s positions

Apple’s view: The company has repeatedly argued that some obligations risk weakening user privacy and security, complicating fraud prevention, and diminishing the curated safety of its ecosystem. It also raises proportionality concerns about deep changes to iOS architecture and App Store policies.

The EU’s view: Regulators contend the rules are necessary to curb gatekeeper power, open markets to competition, prevent anti‑steering and self‑preferencing, and give consumers real choice—without unduly compromising security if properly implemented.

What’s at stake

• How iOS works in the EU: The outcome could cement (or reshape) Apple’s EU‑only options for app distribution and payments.
• Developer economics: Changes to fees, distribution channels, and default settings may alter developer reach and margins.
• Precedent for other gatekeepers: A ruling here will echo across other DMA cases involving major platforms.

Timeline: Decisions at the EU General Court in Luxembourg can take months. Outcomes may include upholding the obligations, annulments in part, or other remedies. Further appeals to the European Court of Justice are possible, so the process could extend well beyond 2025.

Further reading

• European Commission: Digital Markets Act
• EU gatekeeper designations (2023)
• Apple: EU DMA and apps (developer guidance)
• Apple newsroom: EU changes to iOS, Safari and the App Store (2024)

Why it matters: The case will help define the balance between competition and platform security in Europe’s mobile ecosystem—and could influence regulatory approaches worldwide.

Discussion: Should DMA obligations push Apple to open iOS further, or do they go too far and risk user security?