Apple became the first company to be accused by EU authorities of violating the European Digital Markets Act. The European Commission concluded that Apple hindered competition in the App Store.
In an official statement, the agency indicated that Apple does not allow developers to "freely" direct users to platforms outside the App Store, where purchases can be made without paying Apple’s commission. It also noted that the new fee for developers wishing to distribute their apps on alternative platforms "goes beyond what is strictly necessary."
The European Commission emphasized that this is only a preliminary accusation. A final decision will be made by March 25, 2025.
Apple representatives told Reuters that over the past few months, the company has made numerous changes to the App Store policy, and it now complies with the law.