Italy Opens DMA Investigation Into Apple Over iCloud Backup Access

Italy has opened a Digital Markets Act investigation into Apple over claims that rival cloud storage services do not get the same iOS and iPadOS access as iCloud.



The Italian Competition Authority said Apple must allow third-party consumer cloud providers to work with iOS and iPadOS effectively and free of charge under the DMA. The regulator said these providers also need equal access to the same hardware and software features Apple gives to iCloud.



According to the authority, rival cloud storage services appear unable to use certain iPhone and iPad features that allow users to make a full backup of their device data. Apple’s iCloud can use those features, which gives Apple’s own service a clear advantage if the regulator’s concerns prove correct.



The probe covers Apple Inc., Apple Distribution International Ltd and Apple Italia S.r.l. It also marks the first time Italy’s competition watchdog has used its DMA powers to run a preliminary investigation.



The authority said it launched the case in close cooperation with the European Commission, which remains the sole enforcer of the DMA. Italy will share its findings with the Commission after the investigation.



Companies that breach the DMA can face fines of up to 10% of their worldwide annual revenue.