The Free Software Foundation Europe (FSFE) writes that interoperability – a key enabler of software freedom – is under serious threat in the EU from vested US technology interests.
Apple has initiated a legal battle against the European Commission to prevent third-party software developers from accessing essential software and hardware functions of Apple devices. The FSFE believes that control of interoperability should not at the discretion of companies like Apple.
Consequently the FSFE is taking action, intervening in the EU’s action against Apple to defend interoperability and software freedom. The EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) imposes anti-monopoly obligations on very large companies like Apple (they are termed “gatekeepers” in the law. Ed.), forcing the likes of Apple to allow interoperability and granting access seekers (app stores, browsers, payment systems, etc.) free-of-charge access to its APIs. The law mandates the same level of interconnection enjoyed by Apple to third-party software developers – something which Apple is trying to avoid. Apple claims preposterously that interoperability in the DMA violates fundamental rights.
In contrast, the FSFE argues that interoperability is a cornerstone of public interest in digital markets: interoperability ensures that users and developers have the freedom to choose and create solutions that best meet their needs, rather than being locked into a single environment controlled by a dominant market player like Apple. Free software solutions cannot compete with Apple ‘services’ without effective interoperability, as they are denied access to essential functions on Apple devices, resulting in poorer performance and functionality.