### Apple’s App Store Policies Under EU Scrutiny
#### EU’s Digital Markets Act and Apple
The European Union’s regulators have flagged Apple’s App Store “steering” policies as a violation of the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which aims to foster competition. Similar scrutiny is being applied to [Meta](https://about.meta.com/) and [Google](https://about.google/). Apple has until March 2025 to respond to the European Commission’s preliminary assessment before a final ruling is made. If found in violation, Apple could face fines up to 10 percent of its annual global revenue, equating to $38 billion based on last year’s figures. Repeat offenses could see this penalty double to 20 percent.
#### Core Technology Fee and Developer Requirements
The investigation also targets Apple’s Core Technology Fee, the complex process for installing third-party marketplaces, and the stringent eligibility criteria for developers.
“We have also opened proceedings against Apple in relation to its so-called core technology fee and various rules for allowing third party app stores and sideloading,” said Vestager. “The developers’ community and consumers are eager to offer alternatives to the App Store. We will investigate to ensure Apple does not undermine these efforts.”
#### Apple’s Response and Concerns
On Friday, Apple attributed delays in rolling out key iOS 18 features in Europe to the DMA’s interoperability requirements, which they argue could compromise user privacy and data security.
*Update, June 24th: Added Apple’s statement regarding anti-steering ruling.*
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Is Apple ready to change its ways, or will it keep pushing boundaries?