• EU antitrust regulators are preparing to close their investigation into Apple's browser options on iPhones after the tech giant made changes to comply with landmark EU rules.
  • Apple introduced a browser choice screen in iOS 17.4 for EU users and implemented additional compliance updates by late 2024.
  • While this probe may conclude, Apple still faces other DMA-related investigations regarding its App Store policies and developer terms.

Apple's DMA Compliance Leads to Probe Resolution

EU antitrust regulators are set to close their investigation into Apple's browser options on iPhones after the company implemented changes to comply with the Digital Markets Act (DMA), according to people familiar with the matter. The move comes after Apple rolled out a browser choice screen in iOS 17.4 for EU users and made further adjustments to its default app and deletion options by the end of 2024.

The potential closure of this probe represents a partial victory for Apple in its ongoing regulatory battles with the EU, though the company still faces multiple other investigations related to its compliance with the landmark tech regulations. "While the browser choice issue appears resolved, the broader DMA compliance picture remains complex for Apple," said one industry analyst who asked not to be named discussing regulatory matters.

Ongoing Regulatory Challenges

Despite progress on the browser options front, Apple continues to navigate a challenging regulatory landscape in Europe. The European Commission has issued binding orders requiring Apple to open iOS and iPadOS connectivity features to third-party devices within two years. Meanwhile, separate probes into Apple's App Store policies and developer terms remain active.

Apple declined to comment on the potential closure of the browser options investigation when reached. The company has previously stated it is "committed to complying with the DMA" while maintaining its ecosystem's security and privacy standards. Market reaction was muted, with Apple shares showing little change in pre-market trading following the news.

Broader Implications for Big Tech

The developments come as EU regulators take an increasingly aggressive stance toward big tech companies. Alphabet's Google is also facing DMA-related charges regarding its search results and app store practices. The actions against Apple and Google signal the EU's determination to enforce its digital competition rules, potentially setting precedents that could influence regulatory approaches in other jurisdictions.

Correction: An earlier version of this article incorrectly stated the timeline for Apple's implementation of browser choice changes. The company introduced the initial browser choice screen in iOS 17.4, with further updates coming later in 2024.