The European Commission’s ruling against the tech giants could stoke trade tensions between the EU and the U.S.
Topline
Apple was fined $570 million (€500 million) and Meta was hit with a $228 million (€200 million) penalty by the European Union on Wednesday for separate violations of the bloc’s digital market rules, in a move that could raise tensions between the EU and the U.S. amid efforts by both sides to make tariff and trade deals.Key Facts
The European Commission, the EU’s executive body, announced the fines after a year-long investigation into the two companies’ compliance with the Digital Markets Act—which aims to make it easier for smaller companies to compete with global tech giants.
The commission said Apple had failed to comply with the rules as it imposed several restrictions that limit iPhone and iPad app developers from fully benefiting “from the advantages of alternative distribution channels” other than the company’s official App Store.
