The European Commission has confirmed that Apple remains non-compliant with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) and may face ongoing fines until it aligns with EU regulations. This follows the Commission’s release of its detailed April decision, which imposed a $540 million (approx.) fine for violating the DMA. The legislation requires digital “gatekeepers” like Apple to allow app developers to steer users toward external purchasing options without restrictions or fees. Although Apple introduced new business terms in early 2024, allowing “link-outs,” the Commission found these measures too restrictive and inconsistent with the DMA’s requirement for practical and effective user redirection.
The Commission criticized Apple for continuing to impose fees such as commissions on post-link-out transactions and the Core Technology Fee, which it deemed deterrents to steering users outside the App Store. The ruling requires Apple to cease its non-compliant practices and report how it will meet regulatory standards within the remaining 30 days of its 60-day compliance window. Apple disputes the decision, claiming, “The decision is bad for innovation, bad for competition, bad for our products, and bad for users. While we appeal, we’ll continue engaging with the Commission to advocate on behalf of our European customers.” If Apple fails to comply, it risks further penalties of up to 10% of global turnover, or up to 20% for repeated violations, signaling heightened regulatory pressure on major tech platforms in the EU.
