Google, alongside major European telecom firms, is urging the European Commission to categorize iMessage as a “core” service under the Digital Markets Act (DMA). The move emphasizes the critical role of iMessage as a communication channel between businesses and consumers. Google has been advocating for Apple to adopt RCS (Rich Communication Services), a cross-platform messaging standard, through its #GetTheMessage campaign. The argument revolves around Apple’s iMessage exclusivity being seen as a strategic move, highlighting the need for interoperability with other messaging services.
While Apple’s Messages app can send cross-platform messages via SMS, iMessage’s enhanced features, such as encryption and higher quality media sharing, are exclusive to Apple’s ecosystem. The joint letter, signed by Google and CEOs of major telecom companies like Vodafone, Deutsche Telekom, Telefónica, and Orange, asserts that iMessage qualifies as a core platform service, given its operation by a company with substantial revenue and a significant user base, especially in the business sector.
The letter contends that iMessage plays a crucial role as a gateway between businesses and consumers, justifying Apple’s designation as a gatekeeper for the service under the DMA. In response, Apple maintains that iMessage is designed for personal consumer communication and falls outside the DMA’s scope. Apple argues that consumers have access to various messaging apps, and iMessage’s focus is on personal communication.
The ongoing investigation by the Commission into iMessage’s potential classification as a core platform service is expected to yield a decision by February next year. Apple remains firm on iMessage’s consumer-centric design and looks forward to further discussions with the Commission.
