EU Fines Apple $2 Billion For Anti_Competitive Behavior Towards Spotify
European Commission’s Ruling:
EU Fines Apple $2 Billion for Anti-Competitive Behavior Towards Spotify -The European Commission has fined Apple €1.8 billion ($1.95 billion) for anti-competitive conduct against rival music streaming services. The penalty concludes a long-running investigation into Apple’s treatment of third-party music streaming services on the App Store, triggered by a complaint from Spotify.
According to the Commission, Apple abused its dominant market position by preventing music streaming apps from informing users about cheaper subscription prices available outside the app. This action violated EU antitrust rules.
Apple’s Response:
In response, Apple fiercely contested the Commission’s decision, arguing that Spotify benefits from the App Store without contributing financially. Apple highlighted the free services it provides to Spotify, such as distribution and engineering assistance.
The company also emphasized previous rulings by the European Commission, which found no evidence of consumer harm or anti-competitive behavior in similar cases over the past eight years.
Compliance with EU’s Digital Markets Act:
Furthermore, Apple announced its intention to comply with the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) with the release of iOS 17.4, which includes adjustments tailored to European users. Apple believes the fine is an attempt by the Commission to enforce the DMA prematurely and plans to appeal the ruling.
