Bloomberg recently reported that Apple and Google are preparing to undergo a comprehensive investigation by the European Union (EU) to determine whether they comply with the new Digital Markets Act. The investigation could lead to significant fines for both major tech companies.
The European Commission is expected to announce this investigation in the coming days, focusing on whether Apple and Google comply with the EU Digital Markets Act Directive.
Additionally, sources say the EU will scrutinize Apple and Google's new fees, terms and conditions for app developers, while Meta's proposal to charge users a monthly fee used when accessing Facebook and Instagram could also attract the attention of European regulators.
Investigations show Big Tech faces increasing regulatory pressure. (Photo: digitalinformationworld)
Already, the EU's Digital Markets Act, which came into full force on March 7, has placed major tech companies like Apple under close scrutiny. The Act introduces a set of regulations for the world's largest technology platforms, empowering the EU to impose fines of up to 3% of each company's annual global turnover, and up to 10% if violated multiple times.
The Act aims to ensure fair competition in digital markets, and prevent anti-competitive practices by tech giants. Notably, Apple recently faced a huge fine of 1,84 billion euros from the EU, for allegedly hindering music streaming service Spotify from informing users about cheaper subscription options.
In parallel with the EU's actions, the US Department of Justice and 16 state and regional attorneys general joined forces to file an antitrust lawsuit against Apple. The lawsuit accuses Apple of illegally monopolizing the smartphone market, creating yet another legal challenge for the tech giant.
Furthermore, these legal actions highlight the growing global regulatory scrutiny that major tech companies like Apple and Google face. It also signals a shift towards closer monitoring of their market activities.
Apparently, the impending investigations by both the European Union and the US highlight a pivotal moment for major technology companies, as they face increasing regulatory pressure to push promote fair competition, protect consumer rights, and limit monopolistic practices in the digital landscape.
As these investigations unfold, the results will not only affect Apple and Google's future operations, but will also set a precedent for legal actions against other tech giants around the world. gender.
