EU set to slap Apple with €500m fine over music streaming restrictions

The European Commission is poised to impose a landmark €500 million fine on Apple for allegedly impeding access to music streaming services, marking a significant blow to the tech giant. The investigation centers on Apple’s alleged prevention of music streamers from informing users about cheaper subscription options outside its app store, where it takes a substantial revenue cut.

This move follows years of complaints, including a 2019 filing by Spotify, which argues that Apple’s fees stifle competition by giving its service, Apple Music, an unfair advantage. The Commission, likely to declare Apple’s actions illegal, is expected to prohibit the blocking of music services from advertising cheaper subscriptions outside the platform.

The tech industry faces increasing scrutiny over competition concerns, with Google also contesting hefty fines from the European Union. Apple’s response includes allowing EU customers to download apps outside its app store, aligning with the bloc’s Digital Markets Act to foster consumer competition and choice. The European Commission and Apple declined to provide fresh comments, emphasizing the ongoing dialogue regarding competition and consumer choice in the digital sphere.