The European Commission has fined Apple over €1.8 billion for abusing its dominant position on the market for the distribution of music streaming apps to iPhone and iPad users (‘iOS users’) through its App Store. In particular, the Commission found that Apple applied restrictions on app developers preventing them from informing iOS users about alternative and cheaper music subscription services available outside of the app (‘anti-steering provisions’). This is illegal under EU antitrust rules.
1.8 billion is around 2% of their last year’s net income. At least it’s a bit better than the insignificant wristslaps companies tend to get.
And ofc, as usual, the appeal will likely bring it down substantially
True but it’s nice to even see numbers like this thrown out at all nowadays, especially at Apple.
Apple doesn’t often win appeals for EU fines
Global net income, yes. But it is 5% of the income from the EU. As much as I dislike Apple, the fine seems to be reasonable. I do want to see it bumped up if they keep on with their horseplay.