Apple is expected to be the first company fined under the European Union’s new Digital Markets Act (DMA), a regulation designed to curb the influence of major tech firms. Sources indicate that EU regulators may issue the fine this month, following charges filed in June that accused Apple of breaching the DMA.
The DMA, enacted this year, mandates that Apple allows users to choose default web browsers on iPads, permit alternative app stores, and enable accessory access to iPad OS features. Apple has faced increased regulatory scrutiny, including a 1.84 billion euro fine in March for App Store restrictions that allegedly stifled music streaming competitors. Additionally, Apple recently lost a court battle with the EU, resulting in a 13-billion-euro tax payment to Ireland.
The upcoming fine reflects a broader push by the EU to create fairer competition for smaller companies against Big Tech’s dominance.