Italy's competition authority has opened an investigation into Apple over iCloud cloud storage services, examining compliance with the EU's Digital Markets Act. The Autorita Garante Della Concorrenza E Del Mercato is scrutinizing whether Apple provides equal access to third-party cloud providers on par with its own services.

Under Article 6(7) of the DMA, Apple must ensure third-party cloud services have "free and effective interoperability" with iOS and iPadOS. The regulator alleges that Apple restricts features like full device backups to third-party services, creating an uneven playing field. This marks Italy's first DMA-based competition probe.

The investigation reflects ongoing regulatory pressure on Apple since the DMA took effect two years ago. Apple has already made concessions including alternative app stores and reduced fees, but continues opposing the regulation's requirements. The company argues DMA compliance would compromise privacy and security.

Apple has not commented on the Italian probe, which operates in cooperation with the European Commission. The outcome could influence how major tech platforms handle cloud storage interoperability across Europe.