European Union regulators have accused tech giant Apple of violating new tech regulations by restricting customers on its App Store from being directed to alternative options. The European Commission announced on Monday that it has opened a new investigation into Apple’s contractual terms with developers.
The probe, conducted under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), aims to regulate the power of Big Tech companies like Apple, Alphabet, and Meta. One key area of focus in the investigation is Apple’s anti-steering rules, which prohibit businesses from informing users about cheaper alternatives or subscriptions outside of the App Store.
Preliminary findings from regulators suggest that Apple’s rules prevent app developers from freely communicating with consumers about alternative channels for offers and content, thereby violating the DMA. While Apple allows developers to provide links to external webpages for purchases, the process is restricted by Apple in a way that hinders developers from effectively communicating with users.
Furthermore, regulators noted that the fees Apple charges developers for acquiring new customers through the App Store exceed what is deemed necessary under the DMA.
Apple has not yet commented on the accusations. This development underscores the ongoing efforts by regulatory bodies to ensure fair competition and consumer choice in the digital marketplace. Stay tuned for further updates on this story.
Vocabulary List
- Accused /??kju?zd/ (verb): To charge someone with a wrongdoing.
- Contractual /k?n?trækt?u?l/ (adjective): Relating to a contract or agreement.
- Anti-steering /?ænti?st??r??/ (adjective): Referring to policies that prevent guiding customers to alternative choices.
- Preliminary /pr??l?m?n?ri/ (adjective): Serving as a preparation for something more important.
- Acquiring /??kwa??r??/ (verb): To gain possession or control of something.
- Regulatory /?r??j?l?t?ri/ (adjective): Relating to rules or regulations.
Vocabulary List:
- Accused /əˈkjuːzd/ (verb): To charge someone with a wrongdoing.
- Contractual /kənˈtræktʃuəl/ (adjective): Relating to a contract or agreement.
- Anti-steering /ˈæntiˌstɪrɪŋ/ (adjective): Referring to policies that prevent guiding customers to alternative choices.
- Preliminary /prɪˈlɪmɪnəri/ (adjective): Serving as a preparation for something more important.
- Acquiring /əˈkwaɪərɪŋ/ (verb): To gain possession or control of something.
- Regulatory /ˈrɛɡjʊlətəri/ (adjective): Relating to rules or regulations.
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