Apple’s App Store rules have been found in breach of EU tech regulations, according to European antitrust regulators. The European Commission, acting as the EU’s antitrust and technology regulator, announced preliminary findings accusing Apple of preventing app developers from steering consumers to alternative offers. This charge could result in a significant fine for the iPhone maker. The investigation, launched in March, marks the first application of the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), designed to curb the power of Big Tech and promote fair competition.
EU antitrust chief Margrethe Vestager highlighted issues with Apple’s terms, stating that they restrict app developers’ ability to communicate freely with users and enter contracts. While Apple has allowed developers to include links redirecting users to external websites for contract completion, the Commission criticized this as insufficient and noted that the fees Apple charges go beyond what is necessary. Apple has responded by asserting compliance with the DMA, claiming that recent changes were made after receiving feedback from developers and the Commission. Additionally, the EU has opened a separate investigation into Apple’s new contractual requirements for third-party developers and app stores.