The EU Digital Markets Act is a law regulating the economic power of very large technology companies. The law includes several obligations to tackle unfair practices and improve market contestability addressed at companies considered "gatekeepers" of digital markets in the EU.

The DMA creates new opportunities impacting Free Software, like the obligations to allow alternative app stores, the prohibition of non-removable pre-installed software, the enabling of side-loading of software in devices, and interoperability rules regarding software and hardware.

The European Commission is the main authority responsible for implementing and oversight the DMA. The Commission has been investigating companies like Apple, Google and Meta due to their behaviour and practices.

This fireside chat will provide the audience the opportunity to interact with Commission's officers working directly with the DMA. The session will focus on the legal and technical challenges the Commission faces for DMA compliance, in particular: (a) Enabling alternative app stores in iPhones and iPads; (b) Enhancing interoperability in Apple devices; (c) Breaking lock-ins by leveling the playing field for smaller Free Software projects against gatekeeper commercial practices.

The format consists of: (1) a short presentation by the Commission's officers on the importance of DMA for Free Software contributors; (2) A longer Q&A session together with the audience moderated by Dr. Lucas Lasota about the technical and legal aspects of the DMA.

This fireside chat will provide valuable insights for the audience on the work of regulators in Europe, and how they implement key legislation for Free Software.