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Apple’s iPhone needs a shake-up. It should thank the EU

Making its core products more interoperable will be a boon to not just consumers but the company itself

Apple’s decision to allow alternative app stores on its iPhones and iPads would give consumers a wider array of app choices.

Apple is reportedly about to let outside app makers use some of the firm’s most tightly held iPhone technology.

PHOTO: AFP

Parmy Olson

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Apple’s walled garden around its technology is as synonymous with the iPhone maker as the iPhone itself. It is how Apple lures consumers into buying expensive earphones, watches and speakers that work seamlessly with that rectangular slab in their pockets, and ultimately what locks people in to Apple products.

That has been great for Apple’s business, but not always so great for consumers. Now,

a European Union law

is forcing the firm to loosen its iron grip on its products. That ultimately could lead to a more dynamic experience on the iPhone as developers create more and feature-rich apps for the platform that capitalise on more of Apple’s technology.

Apple’s iPhone needs a shake-up. It should thank the EU

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