The European Commission has said that Apple continues to violate the Digital Markets Act (DMA) even after a €500 million fine imposed in April. The company has less than 30 days (until June 22, 2025) to change its policies or the EU could impose new fines of up to 5% of its daily global revenue.
The main violation concerns the prohibition on developers informing users about alternative payment methods - for example, through external services or their own websites. The Commission believes that Apple artificially complicates such transitions by using "anti-navigation" mechanisms, including messages such as: "You are being redirected to an external site. Apple is not responsible for the security or privacy of purchases on this resource."
The EC believes that such "intimidation" drives away users and hinders fair competition. The Commission called such practices blatantly anti-competitive and infringes the rights of developers and consumers.
Apple, in a statement to 9to5Mac, expressed disappointment with the decision and said it would appeal. The company believes the European Commission's actions "threaten the privacy and security of Apple users in Europe and force us to give away our technology for free."
As a reminder, the Digital Markets Act (DMA) came into effect in November 2022. It aims to limit the monopoly power of tech giants and ensure a level playing field for app developers. Apple was required to allow third-party app stores, alternative payment methods, and provide more freedom to users and developers.
In the event of continued non-compliance with the DMA, Apple may face periodic fines or additional sanctions from the EU.