Commission launches investigation into Apple as 'App Store and Apple Pay violate antitrust laws'
The European Commission (EC) announced on June 17, 2020 that it has begun investigation into Apple's app distribution platform App Store and payment system
Antitrust: Commission opens investigations into Apple
https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_20_1073
Antitrust: Commission opens investigation into Apple practic
https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_20_1075
EU opens Apple antitrust investigations into App Store and Apple Pay practices-The Verge
https://www.theverge.com/2020/6/16/21292651/apple-eu-antitrust-investigation-app-store-apple-pay
The survey on the App Store was made in response to complaints from Spotify and Rakuten that 'Apple is monopolizing the music streaming distribution service and e-book subscription and sales through the App Store.' Spotify, in particular, has repeatedly filed complaints against Apple and has clashed head-on with Apple.
Spotify criticizes Apple for violating antitrust law, but Apple strongly criticizes Spotify as destroying the music industry-GIGAZINE
``Apple has established rules for distributing apps to iPhone and iPad users, and regarding distribution of apps and content to users, Apple is a ``gatekeeper'' I need to ensure that Apple doesn't distort the market where Apple is competing with other app developers, such as the music streaming services Apple Music and Apple Books. Decided to scrutinize compliance with Apple's App Store rules and EU competition rules.'
In addition, Apple Pay has been accused of antitrust law due to restricted access to the near field communication (NFC) function installed in the iPhone and Apple Watch. If you use the NFC function, you can make cashless payments on your iPhone or Apple Watch, but you can only access the NFC function through Apple Pay, so a third-party developer can use the NFC function with your own payment application It was said that there was a complaint to the EC that they could not do so.
In November 2019, a bill was
'Mobile payment solutions are rapidly gaining acceptance among mobile device users, making it easier to pay both online and in-store, especially with the new coronavirus crisis,' said Vestager. 'Contactless payment adoption is accelerating,' he said. 'Apple's restricted access to NFC features could distort competition and reduce choice and confidence.'
An Apple spokeswoman told IT news site The Verge, 'Based on unsubstantiated complaints from a small number of companies who just want a free ride and don't want to fight the same rules as all other companies. And I'm disappointed with the EC's ongoing research.' “I don't think that's the case. We have a level playing field where everyone with determination and good ideas can succeed. I want to keep it.'
Meanwhile, Spotify said, ``We welcome the EC's decision to formally investigate Apple and the EC will act immediately to ensure fair competition on the iOS platform for all participants in the digital economy. I hope that.'
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