The European Commission has designated Apple's iPadOS as a gatekeeper under the Digital Markets Act, despite not meeting the quantitative thresholds initially set out in the DMA. This decision comes after a market investigation revealed that iPadOS serves as a crucial gateway for business users to connect with end consumers.

Apple now has six months to ensure full compliance with the DMA obligations specifically applied to iPadOS. This move is part of the Commission's efforts to maintain fairness and competition within digital platforms, in addition to the 22 other services previously designated under the DMA last September.

Executive Vice-President Margrethe Vestager emphasized the importance of the DMA in addressing the realities of digital markets, highlighting the significance of including Apple's iPadOS within its scope. Commissioner Thierry Breton noted that this decision marks the first market investigation for qualitative designation under the DMA, underscoring the role of iPadOS as a key gateway for businesses to reach consumers.