EU prepares to fine Apple over repeated failure to comply with Digital Markets Act

The European Union's Digital Markets Act may result in the first fine against Apple due to its repeated failure to comply with the spirit of the law. Apple has struggled to adhere to the new regulations aimed at preventing monopolies from dominating a market, with its anti-steering practices being a particular point of contention.

According to anonymous sources, the EU may impose a significant fine on Apple before Margrethe Vestager leaves office in November or it may be postponed until later in 2024. The penalty could be followed by ongoing payments as long as Apple remains non-compliant. However, it is unclear how Apple is currently violating the law and leading to this potential fine.

Despite its claims of compliance, Apple has continually modified its rules in an effort to satisfy regulators. Most recently in November, it eliminated anti-steering practices and removed the Core Technology Fee for nearly all iOS apps. It remains uncertain whether the reports of a possible fine are due to Apple not yet implementing these changes or if these alterations still fall short of compliance.

A previous report in June suggested that Apple was on the verge of being fined, but it did not materialize. While insider sources may pick up on plans brewing within the EU watchdogs, the ultimate decision rests with them.