The European Union has announced multiple investigations on Big Tech companies such as Alphabet/Google, Apple, and Meta under the Digital Markets Act (DMA). These probes focus on issues related to self-preferencing, steering, and compliance with competition rules. The investigations must be concluded within 12 months, with possible fines of up to 10% of global annual turnover for confirmed violations.
Google is being scrutinized for its steering rules in Google Play and self-preferencing in search results. Apple’s investigation includes its App Store steering rules and choice screen design for alternative web browsers. Meta’s “pay or consent” model is also under review by the Commission.
Additionally, five investigations were announced in less than three weeks since the compliance deadline for the companies. These investigations aim to determine if the gatekeepers designated under the pan-EU market power regulation are breaching the rulebook.
The EU’s enforcement action comes amid increasing antitrust scrutiny globally, with criticisms raised against the compliance plans of Alphabet, Apple, and Meta for not aligning with the new EU law.
The Commission is looking into Alphabet’s vertical search services, Apple’s user choice obligations on iOS, and Meta’s personal data handling under the DMA. If found non-compliant, gatekeepers could face fines, emphasizing the need for fair and open digital markets in Europe.
Apple, Google, and Meta have expressed their commitment to complying with the DMA regulations while engaging with the European Commission during the investigations.
Furthermore, Amazon’s ranking practices on its marketplace are also under scrutiny by the EU for potentially self-preferencing its products, although no formal non-compliance procedure has been initiated yet. The EU has also issued retention orders to ensure tech giants preserve evidence for effective enforcement.
Extension for Facebook Messenger interoperability
Meta has been granted an additional six months to comply with the DMA’s interoperability obligation for Facebook Messenger, allowing for a phased approach to opening up messaging apps to rivals. This extension follows a reasoned request submitted by Meta and aims to ensure effective interoperability while maintaining security standards.
Overall, the EU’s enforcement actions aim to ensure transparency, competition, and compliance with digital market regulations among major tech companies operating in Europe.
