Why were Apple's Maps and Ads services not designated as gatekeepers?

The European Commission cited the relatively low usage and limited market impact of these services in Europe as reasons for not designating them as gatekeepers.

What is the purpose of the EU's Digital Markets Act?

The EU's Digital Markets Act is designed to curb the market power of major tech companies and make it easier for users to switch between competing digital services.

Home / Technology / Apple Maps & Ads Dodge EU Gatekeeper Label

Apple Maps & Ads Dodge EU Gatekeeper Label

Q: Will Apple Maps and Ads be considered gatekeepers under the EU's Digital Markets Act?

No, the European Commission has concluded that Apple's Maps and Ads services will not be designated as gatekeepers under the EU's Digital Markets Act.

5 Feb

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Summary

Apple's Maps and Ads services will not be designated as gatekeepers.
The EU Commission cited relatively low usage and limited market impact.
Apple welcomed the decision, citing significant competition in Europe.

Apple Maps & Ads Dodge EU Gatekeeper Label

The European Commission announced on Thursday that Apple's Maps and Ads services will not be designated as gatekeepers under the European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA). This determination was made due to the services' relatively low usage and limited market impact within Europe.

The Commission stated that neither Apple Ads nor Apple Maps constitute an important gateway for business users to reach end consumers, a key criterion for gatekeeper status. Apple expressed satisfaction with the decision, highlighting that these services operate in a competitive European market and do not meet the DMA's stringent designation requirements.

The EU's DMA is a landmark regulation designed to regulate major technology companies, fostering a more competitive digital landscape. Its objective is to make it simpler for users to transition between various services, including app stores, social media, and web browsers.