Apple is set to be fined by the European Union's antitrust regulator under the bloc's landmark rules aimed at curbing the power of Big Tech, making it the first company to be sanctioned. A source with direct knowledge of the matter said on Tuesday.
In June, regulators accused the iPhone maker, led by CEO Tim Cook, of violating blockchain technology rules. The charges against Apple are the commission's first charges under the Digital Markets Act (DMA).
The fines are likely to be imposed this month, but the timing is still subject to change, sources said.
The fine adds to Apple's antitrust problems as EU regulators seek to level the playing field for small businesses.
This comes just months after the city of Brussels fined Apple 1.84 billion euros ($2.01 billion) in March for hindering competition with music streaming rivals through App Store restrictions. It was. This is Apple's first fine for violating EU rules.
Apple also faces scrutiny over new fees imposed on app developers. Violations of the DMA can result in fines equal to 10% of a company's global annual turnover.
The Digital Markets Act (DMA), which came into effect earlier this year, requires Apple to allow users to choose a default web browser on the iPad, allow alternative app stores on the company's operating system, and allow users to use headphones and Requires smartpens to be allowed to access iPads. OS features.
Apple declined to comment. The European Commission did not respond to Reuters' request for comment.
In September, Apple lost a long legal battle with the EU and was forced to pay 13 billion euros in taxes to Ireland.
First reported by Bloomberg Apple mentioned the impending EU fine early Tuesday.
The move comes after Apple refused to allow app developers to direct users to cheaper sales or offers outside the App Store, Bloomberg reported, citing people familiar with the matter. The supervisory authorities are reportedly preparing fines.
