Apple's iMessage, Microsoft's Bing Escape Tough EU Antitrust Rules After Months of Investigation

Apple's iMessage and Microsoft's Bing and Edge are officially not tagged "gatekeepers" under the European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA).

Both Apple and Microsoft have been under investigation after the European Commission flagged their apps as "gatekeepers."

Apple Retains iMessage Exclusivity

After several months of probing, Apple's messaging service, iMessage, is now out of the DMA's laws since the Commission had decided to close the investigation.

This is considered a big win for Apple whose messaging service has been facing complaints from Android users who wished for compatibility. Since iMessage is officially non-gatekeeper app, Apple will not be forced to open up its infrastructure to accommodate the DMA rules.

"Following a thorough assessment of all arguments, taking into account input by relevant stakeholders, and after hearing the Digital Markets Advisory Committee, the Commission found that iMessage, Bing, Edge and Microsoft Advertising do not qualify as gatekeeper services," the Commission wrote.

Microsoft Advertising, Bing, Edge Win DMA Investigation

Last year, Microsoft's products were hit by accusations of being a "core platform service" under the DMA. The investigation included online search Bing, web browser Edge, and online advertising service Microsoft Advertising.

The probe against the products started after these services met the quantitative thresholds set by the Commission. Microsoft presented rebuttal arguments and explained why the services should not be flagged as "gatekeepers."

After the decision, Microsoft shared that their services should be treated as "challengers in the market" instead of incumbents.

"We will continue to engage with the Commission and industry at large to ensure Microsoft's other designated platforms comply fully with the DMA," the company promised.

Meanwhile, other core platform services of Microsoft and Apple will have to operate based on the DMA's rules for "gatekeepers" applications.