Apple Fined $2 Billion by EU for App Store Monopoly; Spotify Feud Intensifies
In a shocking turn of events, Apple has been fined a staggering $2 billion by the European Union for violating antitrust laws with its App Store practices. The EU’s investigation revealed that Apple’s “anti-steering provisions” were illegal, as they restricted competition and harmed consumers.
The penalty, one of the largest in EU antitrust history, has left Apple reeling. The tech giant has been ordered to eliminate the anti-competitive clause and comply with fair competition standards. In response, Apple has vehemently denied the allegations, accusing the EU of bias and lack of evidence.
The fine comes on the heels of a long-standing feud between Apple and Spotify, the world‘s leading music streaming platform. Spotify, which initiated the complaint against Apple, alleges that the tech giant has engaged in anti-competitive practices to stifle its growth.
According to Spotify, Apple has unfairly favored its own music streaming service, Apple Music, over competitors like Spotify. The two companies have been embroiled in a bitter battle for market share, with Spotify accusing Apple of monopolistic behavior.
The feud has escalated to the point where Spotify, along with other companies like Epic Games, has formed the “APP Fair Alliance” to challenge Apple’s App Store policies. Spotify’s victory in the EU case has emboldened the company to continue its fight against Apple’s alleged anti-competitive practices.
As the battle rages on, it remains to be seen how Apple will respond to the EU’s ruling and the growing opposition from companies like Spotify. The tech industry is bracing for more drama as these tech giants clash in the digital arena.