The Free Software Foundation Europe has filed a second legal intervention against Apple at the European Court of Justice. The group argues that Apple must comply with interoperability obligations under the EU’s Digital Markets Act.

The case centers on Apple’s control over its operating systems and app ecosystem. FSFE contends that the company’s closed architecture blocks competition and harms free software projects.

What FSFE Wants

FSFE is pushing for Apple to grant third party developers equal access to iOS and related services. The group says Apple’s current practices violate rules that require gatekeepers to allow interoperability.

The European Commission designated Apple as a gatekeeper in 2023 under the Digital Markets Act. That designation forces the company to open certain parts of its platform to rivals. FSFE’s intervention seeks to ensure those rules apply broadly.

Why This Matters

If the court sides with FSFE, Apple would have to let competing app stores and services operate on iPhones and iPads without artificial restrictions. That change could reshape the mobile software market.

For developers, the outcome could lower barriers to entry and reduce dependence on Apple’s approval process. For consumers, it may mean more choice in app stores and payment systems. The case also sets a precedent for how EU regulators enforce interoperability rules against other big tech firms.

Second Legal Challenge

This is not FSFE’s first intervention against Apple at the EU level. The group previously filed a complaint about Apple’s proprietary file formats and restrictions on third party tools. The new case builds on that work.

FSFE emphasizes that interoperability is essential for free and open source software. Without it, developers cannot create apps or services that work seamlessly with Apple’s platforms. The group warns that Apple’s walled garden model stifles innovation.

The European Court of Justice has not set a date for a hearing. Legal experts expect a decision within the next 12 to 18 months. Until then, Apple’s compliance obligations under the Digital Markets Act remain in effect.