Overview

• The European Union is poised to fine Apple approximately €500 million for antitrust violations stemming from a Spotify complaint.
• The fine marks the EU's first financial penalty against Apple, highlighting increased scrutiny on tech giants' competitive practices.
• Spotify's 2019 complaint accused Apple of stifling competition by restricting apps from informing users about cheaper subscription alternatives outside the App Store.
• Apple's App Store policies, including a 30% commission on in-app purchases, have been under investigation for potentially favoring its own services over competitors like Spotify.
• The impending fine is part of the EU's broader effort to regulate Big Tech, with the Digital Markets Act set to enforce stricter competition rules starting next month.