The European Commission (EC) has issued fines to Apple and Meta for violating the Digital Markets Act (DMA) of the European Union. Apple was fined 500 million euros, while Meta was fined 200 million euros.
Concerning Apple, the EC stated that the infringement stemmed from limiting developers from informing users of payment methods or purchasing products/services outside the App Store system, which resulted in consumer harm. The order also mandates Apple to lift these restrictions for app developers.
As for Meta, the fine was a result of offering payment packages in exchange for not displaying ads to users in Europe, which the EC deemed unfair to customers. Meta subsequently adjusted by reducing the price of packages and minimizing targeted advertising to free users.
The EC has given both Apple and Meta 60 days to rectify their services in compliance with the order, or they may face additional fines of up to 5% of their highest revenue. However, both companies have stated their intent to challenge this order.
Source: The Wall Street Journal and European Commission
TLDR: The European Commission fines Apple and Meta for violating digital market regulations, with Apple fined 500 million euros and Meta fined 200 million euros. Apple restricted developers, while Meta offered payment packages without ads, leading to fines and required service adjustments. Both companies have 60 days to comply or face further penalties.
Leave a Comment