Apple has responded to the European Commission’s investigation into its digital store by asserting that its plan complies with European law. The Commission had concluded that Apple’s digital store does not adhere to the Digital Markets Law of the EU, and has initiated a non-compliance procedure against Apple for the third time.
Apple has made changes over the past few months in response to feedback from developers and the European Commission, in an effort to comply with the Digital Markets Act. The company believes that these changes will allow app developers to inform customers of cheaper alternative purchasing options and direct them to those offers, as required by EU law.
The European legislation mandates that app developers must be able to inform customers of cheaper alternative purchasing options and direct them to those offers. However, concerns have been raised about Apple’s new contractual requirements for third-party application developers and stores, which may limit this freedom for developers. If found guilty of breaching regulations, Apple could face fines of up to 10% of its total worldwide turnover.
Despite this ongoing investigation, Apple remains steadfast in its assertion that its plan is compliant with EU law. The company will examine the documents presented by Brussels as part of its defense and respond in writing. The Commission’s determination to use the tools of the Digital Markets Act to provide opportunities for innovators and consumers is clear, but Apple remains committed to ensuring that its platform provides a fair and competitive environment for all developers.
