"EU Drops Demand for Apple to Open iMessage"

The European Commission has decided not to designate Apple's iMessage as a "core platform service" under the Digital Markets Act, sparing it from tough new obligations such as interoperability with other messaging services. This decision follows a five-month investigation and contrasts with the designation of Meta's WhatsApp and Messenger as core platform services. While Apple's Safari browser, iOS operating system, and App Store still face strict requirements under the DMA, Apple has announced support for the cross-platform RCS messaging standard alongside iMessage. However, Apple's compliance plans, including a Core Technology Fee, have faced criticism from companies like Epic Games and Spotify.