EU Initiates Investigation into Apple's Handling of Online Store Disputes

European Union (EU) regulators have recently started an inquiry into Apple’s actions regarding the exclusion of Epic Games from establishing its independent online store. This development has sparked discussions on the adherence to fair competition norms within the digital marketplace.

Apple’s resolution to terminate Epic Games’ developer account in August 2020 over breaches of the App Store regulations initiated a legal conflict that eventually prompted the EU to mandate the presence of third-party app stores in the EU territory.

In a departure from the original article quotes, Apple declined Epic Games’ efforts to launch a competing app store tailored for the EU audience, citing the latter’s history of contractual violations. This move led to the prohibition of Epic Games from rejoining the iOS ecosystem, notwithstanding their attempts to obtain a new developer account.

EU regulatory entities found Apple’s rationale insufficient and have requested additional clarifications under the newly enacted Digital Markets Act (DMA), which grants the EU the authority to impose fines on companies failing to comply with regulatory standards.

Apple’s competitors have alleged non-compliance by the tech giant, further complicating the situation. The ongoing scrutiny has brought to light the necessity of upholding fair competition principles and consumer choice in the digital domain.