Apple Appeals Against €500m EU Fine Over App Store Practices
Apple has officially appealed a €500 million fine handed down by the European Commission, challenging claims that it broke EU competition rules by limiting how app developers inform users about cheaper alternatives outside the App Store. The company argues the penalty is “unprecedented” and says the Commission’s requirements force confusing business terms that negatively impact developers and customers alike.
The fine, issued under the Digital Markets Act, is part of the EU’s broader push to regulate dominant tech platforms. In response, Apple recently changed its App Store policies in Europe, introducing a tiered commission system and allowing developers to promote outside payment options. But the company says these changes were made under pressure to avoid steep daily fines — not because it agreed with the rules.
The EU maintains that Apple’s original restrictions blocked fair competition, while Apple insists regulators are overreaching. “We believe the European Commission’s decision... go far beyond what the law requires,” Apple said. The case now heads to the General Court, with developers and regulators watching closely to see how the battle plays out.
