Italy Launches Investigation into Apple's Compliance with EU Rules

義大利啟動調查 Apple 是否遵守歐盟規範


Introduction

The Italian Competition Authority has started a formal investigation to see if Apple is following the rules of the European Digital Markets Act (DMA).

義大利競爭管理局已啟動正式調查,以確認 Apple 是否遵循歐盟《數位市場法案》(DMA) 的規定。

Main Body

The investigation focuses on claims that Apple has failed to provide fair access for third-party cloud service providers. According to the DMA, Apple must ensure that external cloud services can work with iOS and iPadOS hardware and software for free, and under the same conditions as Apple's own iCloud service.

此次調查重點在於指控 Apple 未能為第三方雲端服務提供商提供公平的存取權限。根據 DMA 的規定,Apple 必須確保外部雲端服務能夠免費,且在與 Apple 自家 iCloud 服務相同的條件下,與 iOS 及 iPadOS 的硬體和軟體協作。

Regarding the evidence, the regulator emphasized that data suggests third-party providers cannot access critical system components. Consequently, these companies cannot compete fairly with iCloud. This is the first time the Italian authority has used its investigative powers under Article 38(7) of the DMA. Furthermore, the process is being carried out in cooperation with the European Commission, which will receive the final report for further review.

關於證據,監管機構強調數據顯示第三方提供商無法存取關鍵的系統組件。因此,這些公司無法與 iCloud 進行公平競爭。這是義大利當局首次根據 DMA 第 38(7) 條行使調查權力。此外,該過程是在與歐盟委員會的合作下進行,歐盟委員會將收到最終報告以進行進一步審查。

Conclusion

The Italian regulator is now assessing how accessible Apple's systems are, and the final results will be sent to the European Commission.

義大利監管機構目前正在評估 Apple 系統的可存取性,最終結果將提交給歐盟委員會。

Vocabulary Learning

🚀 The 'Connective' Leap: Moving from Simple to Sophisticated

At the A2 level, you usually connect ideas with and, but, or because. To reach B2, you need Logical Connectors. These words act like road signs, telling the reader exactly how the next piece of information relates to the last.


🔍 The Anatomy of the Article's Logic

Look at how the text moves from a problem to a result using specific markers. Instead of saying "and so," the text uses:

*"Consequently, these companies cannot compete fairly..."

The B2 Shift:

  • A2 style: Apple blocks access, so other companies can't compete.
  • B2 style: Apple blocks access; consequently, other companies cannot compete.

🛠️ Your New Toolkit

To sound more professional and fluent, swap your basic words for these high-impact alternatives found in the text:

Instead of...Use this (B2 level)Why?
Also / AndFurthermoreIt adds a new, stronger point to your argument.
SoConsequentlyIt proves a direct cause-and-effect relationship.
AboutRegardingIt formally introduces a specific topic or piece of evidence.

💡 Pro Tip: The "Comma Rule"

Notice that Consequently and Furthermore are followed by a comma.

Example: Furthermore, the process is being carried out in cooperation...

When you start a sentence with these "heavy" connectors, always add a comma. This creates a natural pause, giving your speech a rhythmic, authoritative tone characteristic of a B2 speaker.

Vocabulary Learning

compliance (n.)
The act of obeying a rule, agreement, or law.
Example:The company is working hard to ensure full compliance with the new environmental regulations.
formal (adj.)
Done in accordance with official rules or customs.
Example:The committee launched a formal investigation into the allegations of fraud.
emphasized (v.)
To give special importance or prominence to something in speaking or writing.
Example:The teacher emphasized that the deadline for the project was Friday.
consequently (adv.)
As a result of something that has happened.
Example:The flight was delayed; consequently, we missed our connecting flight in Paris.
assessing (v.)
Evaluating or estimating the nature, ability, or quality of something.
Example:The manager is currently assessing the impact of the new software on productivity.
Practice B2 words in a crossword