The White House has strongly criticized the European Union’s $570 million fine against Apple, labeling it as economic extortion, according to Reuters. The fine was imposed following an investigation into Apple’s compliance with the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which aims to limit the dominance of major tech companies.
The EU accused Apple of violating the DMA by restricting developers from informing users about alternative payment methods outside the App Store and by prohibiting the distribution of iOS apps via competing app stores. A White House spokesperson condemned the EU’s actions, indicating rising tensions between the U.S. and Europe regarding the regulation of American tech firms.
The White House described the fine as a form of economic coercion that targets American companies, stifles innovation, and enables censorship. Apple plans to appeal the decision, arguing that the EU’s actions unfairly target the company and compromise user privacy and security. The fine amounts to approximately 0.1% of Apple’s annual revenue, significantly lower than the maximum 10% allowed under the DMA.
This ruling occurs amid ongoing trade negotiations between the EU and the U.S., potentially complicating transatlantic tech regulations.
— new from MacRumors