Apple charged under new EU digital law

The European Commission said that according to the results of its initial investigation, Apple's restrictions on developers using its App Store violated the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA).

Photo: AP

The DMA is a set of rules aimed at preventing tech giants from monopolizing digital markets with heavy financial penalties. The Commission launched an investigation after the law came into effect in March, including looking into whether Apple makes it easy for iPhone users to change web browsers, as well as other Big Techs like Google and Meta.

Apple is facing pressure from both sides of the Atlantic. The US Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit accusing Apple of monopolizing the smartphone market. App developers like Spotify have complained for years about Apple requiring subscriptions to be purchased only through its iOS app, allowing Apple to collect commissions of up to 30%.

Under the DMA rules, app developers must be allowed to inform customers about cheaper purchase options and direct them to those deals. Apple could be fined up to 10% of its global revenue, amounting to billions of euros, if it fails to comply.

The European Commission will make a final decision on Apple's compliance in March 2025. Apple said it has made many changes to comply with the DMA and the company will continue to listen and cooperate with the Commission.

The EU is also launching a new investigation into the "core technology fee" that Apple charges for each app download and installation from outside Apple's App Store, making it difficult for app developers to reach iOS users.

Cao Phong (according to AP)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/apple--big-tech-dau-tien-bi-buoc-toi-theo-luat-ky-thuat-so-moi-cua-eu-post300644.html