Apple is facing a new antitrust investigation in Europe, as Spain’s competition authority, the CNMC, has announced an inquiry into Apple’s App Store. The CNMC is concerned that Apple may be imposing unfair trading conditions on developers who distribute their software through the App Store to iOS users.
While details about the specific concerns of the CNMC have not been fully disclosed, the authority stated in a press release that Apple could be engaging in anti-competitive practices by dictating unfair trading terms to developers using the App Store.
The investigation by the Spanish authority could take up to two years to conclude. If Apple is found to have breached competition rules, it could face a penalty of up to 10% of its global annual turnover.
Issues related to Apple’s App Store practices have been a recurring topic among developers for years. Complaints have been raised concerning the fees charged for in-app sales, the use of payment technology, and the fairness of the app review process.
Apple asserts that it enforces clear and consistent rules for iOS developers to ensure a safe and high-quality experience for users. The company also claims that over 90% of app store revenues go directly to developers without any commission collected by Apple.
In response to the CNMC investigation, Apple spokesperson Emma Wilson stated that the company will collaborate with the Spanish Competition Authority to address their concerns.
The European antitrust regulators have been increasingly active in challenging Big Tech companies like Apple. Recent actions include a substantial fine issued by the EU in March and a settlement deal in July affecting contactless payments on iOS.
Apple is also under scrutiny by the European Commission for potential violations of the bloc’s Digital Markets Act, which could result in significant penalties for non-compliance. Additional investigations focus on Apple’s anti-steering rules and new fees imposed on developers.
Furthermore, Apple is being investigated by the EU for compliance with regulations allowing third-party app stores, with concerns raised by developers about access to alternative marketplaces on iOS.
The U.K. is also introducing competition reforms targeting Big Tech companies, potentially adding to Apple’s regulatory challenges.
With increasing antitrust actions aimed at Apple’s treatment of developers in its ecosystem, litigation funders are showing interest in the ongoing investigations.
