Apple’s appeal against the European Union’s €500 million fine represents a significant standoff over the control of digital markets. The iPhone maker argues that the European Commission’s ruling on its App Store practices goes “far beyond what the law requires,” escalating the regulatory tensions.
The hefty penalty, issued in April, stemmed from the Commission’s finding that Apple had violated the Digital Markets Act by preventing app developers from steering users to cheaper deals outside its App Store. The EU’s objective was to promote a more open and competitive digital environment.
Although Apple had recently modified its App Store rules to comply with the EU’s directives and avoid further fines, the company now claims that Brussels is excessively dictating how it manages its platform. Apple contends that the imposed terms are detrimental to both developers and consumers.
A central point of Apple’s appeal is its assertion that the EU has unlawfully expanded the definition of “steering,” now including internal app promotions alongside external links. This broader interpretation, Apple argues, creates ambiguity and complicates compliance for developers.