Skip to content

Apple to face EU antitrust charges over Spotify complaint

Apple to face EU antitrust charges over Spotify complaint

The European Commission is likely to serve iPhone manufacturer Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) with a statement of objection over antitrust rules violations after a Spotify complaint (NYSE: SPOT).

There is a possibility the charge sheet will be presented in the coming weeks, sources close to the matter have told Reuters

The development follows the 2019 Spotify complaint accusing Apple of an unfair advantage by promoting Apple Music at the expense of competitors. The American firm allegedly charged a high sales commission on the App Store to subdue rivals.  

By moving forward with a charge sheet, it’s an indicator that the EU has possibly obtained enough evidence that Apple should answer. Although the antitrust enforcers have not issued a statement, the scope of the charges is unclear.

EU regulators will therefore determine if Apple should pay a fine. The commission might also give way forward on how to establish a competitive environment. 

Spotify notes that it increased the monthly subscription fee for its premium service to cover the extra costs. Spotify had also objected to the 30% fee levied on app developers to use Apple’s in-app purchase system. 

However, Apple maintains it elevated Spotify to Europe’s largest streaming service through millions of app downloads. Apple had termed the complaint as baseless. The company notes that:

“It’s disappointing the European Commission is advancing baseless complaints from a handful of companies who simply want a free ride, and don’t want to play by the same rules as everyone else.”

Apple also accused Spotify of knowingly presenting false information regarding the fees it pays to Apple through the App Store.

Ongoing Apple EU investigations

The case is part of the four investigations opened against Apple in Europe since 2020. Apple is also under probe over its guidelines on competitor’s e-books and audiobooks. Furthermore, Apple Pay’s terms and conditions are under scrutiny.

At the same time, the UK has opened its investigation into Apple’s in-app purchases. The probes are increasingly putting the spotlight on Apple’s competitive advantage in Europe. 

Best Crypto Exchange for Intermediate Traders and Investors

  • Invest in cryptocurrencies and 3,000+ other assets including stocks and precious metals.

  • 0% commission on stocks - buy in bulk or just a fraction from as little as $10. Other fees apply. For more information, visit etoro.com/trading/fees.

  • Copy top-performing traders in real time, automatically.

  • eToro USA is registered with FINRA for securities trading.

30+ million Users
Securities trading offered by eToro USA Securities, Inc. (“the BD”), member of FINRA and SIPC. Cryptocurrency offered by eToro USA LLC (“the MSB”) (NMLS: 1769299) and is not FDIC or SIPC insured. Investing involves risk, and content is provided for educational purposes only, does not imply a recommendation, and is not a guarantee of future performance. Finbold.com is not an affiliate and may be compensated if you access certain products or services offered by the MSB and/or the BD

Read Next:

Finance Digest

By subscribing you agree with Finbold T&C’s & Privacy Policy

Related posts

Sign Up

or

By submitting my information, I agree to the Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.

Already have an account? Sign In

Disclaimer: The information on this website is for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, tax, or investment advice. This site does not make any financial promotions, and all content is strictly informational. By using this site, you agree to our full disclaimer and terms of use. For more information, please read our complete Global Disclaimer.