EU Slaps Apple with €500 Million Fine and Orders App Store Changes Under Digital Markets Act

Overview On April 23, 2025, the European Union (EU) fined Apple 500 million euros (approximately $570 million) for violating the Digital Markets Act (DMA). The fine is specifically related to Apple's App Store anti-steering policies, which restrict app developers from informing customers about alternative purchasing options outside the App Store.

Key Points:

• Fine Amount: 500 million euros (about $570 million)
• Reason for Fine: Non-compliance with the DMA’s requirement that app developers be able to inform and direct users to alternative payment options free of charge.
• Apple's Current Policy: Apple charges a commission of more than 17% on purchases made outside apps, which the EU finds contrary to the DMA.
• EU Orders: Apple must remove technical and commercial restrictions on steering provisions in the App Store.

Additional Findings:

• The EU has also expressed concerns that Apple's support for third-party app marketplaces is insufficient, making it difficult for developers to use these channels.
• Apple can formally respond to these preliminary findings but faces potential additional fines if non-compliance continues.
• On a positive note, the EU found Apple’s changes to iOS regarding user choices for system defaults (e.g., default web browser) to be sufficient.

Community Reaction:

A top comment highlights frustration with Apple's restriction on informing users about alternative subscription methods, emphasizing that this law aims to provide more transparency and choice for customers.