from:
http://www.rethink-wireless.com/2010...rust-rules.htm
"[...] Kroes specifically named Apple's App Store as an example of a closed environment.
The comments come against the background of a massive EU initiative called the Digital Agenda, which among many items aims to redefine the ways in which companies can fall foul of antitrust rules. When considering abuse of a market position, the Agenda wants to change the standard from 'dominant' to 'significant' place in a sector. The document states: "Since not all pervasive technologies are based on standards the benefits of interoperability risk being lost in such areas. The Commission will examine the feasibility of measures that could lead significant market players to license interoperability information while at the same time promoting innovation and competition."
Kroes explained: "We need to make sure that significant market players cannot just choose to deny interoperability with their product. This is particularly important in cases where standards don't exist... This is not just about Microsoft or any big company like Apple, IBM or Intel. The main challenge is that consumers need choice when it comes to software or hardware products." Under these rules, Apple could face investigation into its barring of third party development suites, such as Adobe Flash, an issue already reportedly being examined by the US Fair Trade Commission.
Some analysts believe that Apple could be forced to allow developers to write apps without using Xcode or going through the vendor's approval process. [...]"
In my opinion, it is about time!
Cheers,
kaas