06:56 AM EDT, 09/19/2024 (MT Newswires) -- The European Union said Thursday it has launched two proceedings to compel Apple ( AAPL ) to open the operating systems on its iPhones and iPads to other technologies or risk the possibility of fines or periodic penalty payments.

The European Commission said in a statement that under the Digital Markets Act, Apple ( AAPL ) must provide free and effective interoperability to third-party developers and businesses with hardware and software features controlled by its operating systems, iOS and iPadOS.

The EC said the first proceeding will specify how Apple ( AAPL ) can provide connectivity to other devices while a second process will focus on re-designing its operating system to allow other app developers to access iOS.

The commission said it will conclude both proceedings in six months, during which it will convey to Apple ( AAPL ) what steps it must take to come into compliance with interoperability regulations.

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