EU Finalizes Digital Markets Act (DMA) Compliance Framework
| The European Union confirms the final set of technical rules governing 'gatekeepers,' impacting core services offered by major technology firms.
Strict Rules on Interoperability and User Data
The European Union has concluded the drafting of its technical compliance framework for the landmark Digital Markets Act (DMA), officially forcing designated ‘gatekeeper’ companies (including Google, Apple, Meta, and Amazon) to implement significant changes by early next year.
The finalized rules focus on two primary areas:
- Interoperability: Gatekeepers must allow third-party messaging services to interoperate with their own platforms. This means end-to-end encryption must be maintained while enabling cross-platform communication.
- Data Portability: User data must be made easily transferable to competing services, preventing vendor lock-in and promoting fair competition.
Impacts on App Stores and Browsers
Of particular note is the requirement for Apple and Google to allow side-loading of applications and to grant users the ability to easily change default browsers and search engines without technical friction. Failure to comply could result in fines up to 10% of the company’s annual global revenue. The tech giants have until Q1 2026 to achieve full compliance.