In the realm of digital landscapes, Europeans engaging with their phones and computers this week will encounter fresh options for default browsers, search engines, and avenues for downloading iPhone apps, all due to the implementation of changes mandated by the Digital Markets Act (DMA). This set of regulations, enforced by the European Union, applies to six tech behemoths considered “gatekeepers” — namely Amazon, Apple, Google parent Alphabet, Meta, Microsoft, and ByteDance, the proprietor of TikTok. These companies are required to adhere to the new regulations by midnight Wednesday.

The DMA marks the latest addition to a series of regulations crafted by Europe, positioning the continent as a global leader in curbing the dominance of major tech corporations. In response, tech giants are adjusting some of their longstanding business practices, as seen in Apple’s recent decision to permit users to install smartphone apps from sources beyond its App Store.

The newly instituted rules encompass broad yet vaguely defined objectives aimed at fostering “fairer” and “more contestable” conditions in digital markets. These regulations come into effect at a time when global initiatives to rein in the tech industry’s influence are gaining momentum.