Apple Maps and Apple Ads could be subject to tougher regulations in the EU.

Apple has informed the European Commission that Apple Maps and Apple Ads meet certain thresholds, according to new filings.

The EU now has 45 days to assess whether these two services are dominant enough to be designated as gatekeepers. Should they be, Apple would need to ensure Maps and Ads comply with stricter interoperability and competition regulations.

This follows previous designations. iOS, iPadOS, and the App Store have already been classified as gatekeepers under the DMA, compelling Apple to support third-party app stores, alternative payment options, and increased developer access to system features. A similar decision for Maps and Ads would significantly expand Apple’s obligations in Europe.

Apple is challenging the classification and the notion that Apple Maps or Apple Ads should be subject to DMA gatekeeper rules. The company is focusing on market share rather than user numbers in its argument.

Apple states that Apple Maps has “very limited usage” in the EU compared to Google Maps and Waze, and Apple Ads holds a “minimal share” compared to companies like Google, Meta, and TikTok.

Apple contends that even if these services meet the DMA’s user thresholds, they do not have the market dominance the EU typically targets.

The Commission will consider these arguments over the next six weeks before making a final decision in early 2026.

If designated as gatekeepers, Apple would have six months to ensure Maps and Ads comply. The DMA’s requirements could include increased interoperability with competing services, potentially allowing users to select different default maps apps or granting competing ad networks greater access within Apple's ecosystem.

Broader data access or sharing requirements could also be imposed, potentially requiring Apple to share data, such as location information, analytics, and measurement tools, with competitors.

Restrictions on how Apple integrates Maps or Ads within its platforms could also be implemented, preventing Apple from giving its services automatic placement, priority, or deeper system integration unavailable to other apps.

Currently, the practical changes needed for Apple Maps are unclear. However, Apple Ads might face more direct restrictions on targeting, data handling, and app store ad placements.

The next major update is expected in early 2026, when the EU decides whether Apple Maps and Apple Ads officially fall under the DMA’s gatekeeper rules. Apple is preparing for another regulatory challenge, this time concerning services outside its core OS platforms.