Apple, Meta to Face EU Charges Under New Tech Rules

On Friday, three sources said Apple and Meta Platforms will likely be charged for violating key EU laws meant to limit their dominance before the summer

The European Commission, which initiated investigations into the two companies and Alphabet’s Google in March under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), regards Apple and Meta as priority cases, according to the individuals.

The DMA mandates that Big Tech create an environment that facilitates competition among lesser competitors and the transition between competing online services, such as social media platforms, internet browsers, and app stores.

The sources indicated that EU regulators will issue preliminary findings comparable to antitrust charges before the summer break in August. Apple will be the first to be charged, followed by Meta.

Meta and the Commission declined to provide any additional information. Apple cited its March statement, expressing confidence that its plan complies with the DMA and continues to engage in constructive dialogue with the Commission.

Before the final decision is anticipated before EU antitrust chief Margrethe Vestager leaves office in November, companies may propose remedies to address the concerns outlined in the findings. These remedies may include fines of up to 10% of a company’s global annual turnover for violations.

The EU investigation is focused on Apple’s steering rules, which regulators contend implement restrictions that impede app developers from informing users about offers outside the App Store at no cost. Additionally, the investigation examines the new fees Apple has imposed on app developers.

According to the sources, Apple is anticipated to face charges from EU regulators.

They also stated that a subsequent investigation concentrating on the Safari web browser’s option screen will likely require additional time.

The individuals stated that the preliminary discovery regarding Meta pertains to its recently implemented pay-or-consent model, which involves users paying a subscription charge to access an ad-free version of Facebook and Instagram.

The FT was the first to disclose that Apple would be subject to EU charges.