Apple first rejected, then quickly approved, Epic's app store in Europe
Epic Games challenges Apple's rejection of its European game store launch, involving the European Commission. The dispute, part of a broader regulatory feud, centers on Apple's 30% in-app purchase cut. EU regulators investigate Apple, Google, and Meta for DMA non-compliance.
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Epic Games has raised concerns over Apple's rejection of its game store launch in Europe, prompting Epic to involve the European Commission. Apple initially rejected Epic's notarization submission twice, citing similarities in button designs with its own App Store. Epic argues that Apple's actions are arbitrary and obstructive, violating the Digital Markets Act. Despite this, Epic remains prepared to launch its store and Fortnite on iOS in the EU. The dispute is part of a larger regulatory feud between Apple and Epic, stemming from Apple's 30% cut in in-app purchases. The ongoing legal battle has attracted significant attention, with Epic's case potentially setting a precedent for how major companies comply with regulatory changes like the DMA. EU regulators have already opened investigations into Apple, Google, and Meta for non-compliance with DMA policies, with Apple expected to be the first facing charges. The situation highlights the complexities of competition and regulation in the digital marketplace.
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3 commentsSurely protecting developers from these kind of arbitrary restrictions by Apple reviewers is the one of the reasons the EU created the DMA regulations in the first place….
Assuming that is the case (and I highly doubt Epic spent all that time fighting Apple just to go back to the App Store), its been a month (2 months?) and we now have 2 (that I know of) examples of apps that are available on third party app stores but not on the official store (Ironically one of those apps is however available in the US App Store, but not the EU).
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European Union regulators accuse Apple of breaching the bloc's tech rules
EU accuses Apple of Digital Markets Act violations for restricting App Store alternatives and charging high developer fees. New probe initiated on contractual terms. Apple defends changes, faces potential fines up to 10%.
Apple found in breach of EU competition rules
Apple breached EU competition rules by not complying with the Digital Markets Act, hindering app developers from directing consumers to alternative channels. The company faces fines if not compliant within 12 months.
EU Accuses Apple App Store Steering Rules of Violating DMA, Opens Investigation
The European Commission accuses Apple of Digital Markets Act violations related to App Store policies, anti-steering rules, and excessive fees. Apple claims compliance with the law. Investigation ongoing, potential fines pending.
Apple is first company charged with violating EU's DMA rules
Apple is the first company charged under the EU's Digital Markets Act for App Store policies hindering competition. Investigations focus on fees, alternative app stores, and compliance changes. EU aims to prevent anti-competitive practices.
Google begs court for relief from Epic Games' Play Store demands
Google resists Epic Games' Play Store changes in court, citing high costs and security risks. Epic seeks third-party store access, porting support, and Google Play distribution. Ongoing legal battle over alleged Google Play monopoly.