Apple is escalating its legal dispute with Europe, alleging that its regulatory delay is hurting efforts to support a new app store. The legal showdown follows the shutdown of an alternative app store and centres on how the regions’ digital competition rules are applied. Apple adds that unclear decisions and slow responses from the regulator are creating confusion for developers. This is also making it harder for new platforms to survive under the current rules.
Apple says Europe delay is hurting alternative app stores
In a recent development, Apple has alleged that the European Commission is preparing to blame the company for the closure of a third-party app store. The developers behind the store say Apple’s business terms are too complex and are changed way too frequently. This makes it harder to run the service. Apple, on the other hand, argues that this uncertainty came from the lack of clear approval from the European regulator.
Under the Digital Markets Act 2024, Apple was required to allow alternative app stores on iOS in Europe. While the tech giant did comply with the act, it added new fees and conditions, including a charge once apps passed a certain number of downloads. The regulators later ruled that Apple did not fully comply with the law and issued it a hefty fine. Apple says it suggested new pricing in 2025, but those changes have not been accepted. App developers say the system is too hard to manage and that the strict rules are needed to limit the company’s power.
Apple responds to continued regulatory pressure
Apple says the real reason behind the delay comes from regulators and not from the company’s resistance. The company adds that it submitted a detailed compliance plan to the regulator months ago. However, it is yet to receive any official response. The firm says this lack of direction discourages developers and creates uncertainty. It also alleges the commission of unfair treatment.
The European Commission disagrees with Apple’s statement. The regulator says it is in regular touch with Apple and concerned developers. It further stresses that their goal is full compliance with the law and that discussions are ongoing. They deny targeting any specific company. As of right now, there’s no major sign of talks between the tech giant and the regulator. However, developers and users are awaiting a good outcome.
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