The European Commission has imposed a total of $798 million in fines on Apple and Meta as a result of investigations conducted under the Digital Markets Act (DMA). Apple was fined $570 million for its App Store policies, while Meta was fined $228 million for its practices regarding data processing preferences.
The European Union has imposed fines on Apple and Meta
The investigation found that Apple prevented app developers from directing users to more affordable alternatives outside the App Store. The Commission concluded that such practices increased commercial pressure on developers and hindered competition.
The fine imposed on Meta was based on the “pay or consent” model that the company implemented on its Facebook and Instagram platforms in November 2023. In this system, users are forced to pay for an ad-free experience or are forced to consent to the use of their personal data for ad targeting.
Apple announced that it will appeal the decision. The company argued that the European Commission unfairly targeted them and that the decisions taken harmed both user interests and the integrity of Apple products.
Meta also expressed its reaction in a similar way. The company claims that the EU has been implementing harsher practices, especially against US-based companies, while being more flexible towards Chinese and European companies.
US President Donald Trump’s recent announcement that they will respond to such penalties indicates that new tensions may arise in the country’s relations with the European Union in the coming period. So what do you think about this issue? You can share your views with us in the comments section below.
