Meta, Microsoft, X, and Match joined Epic Games' battle against Apple, citing that the tech giant is charging too much and enforcing many restrictions.
The four companies argued that Apple lacked proper compliance and failed to allow apps to share their basic information about alternative purchase options.
Companies Rally Against Apple's Fees, Policies
Apple has been long facing complaints against its App Store rules. The tech giant has been sued for its anti-competitive guidelines that barred apps from offering cheaper options outside the App Store.
Under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in the European Union, the company was forced to update its rules. Despite allowing alternative marketplaces and website links to the developers, Apple was firm in collecting commission for any outside purchases.
Meta said that apps should be allowed to direct users to the web to pay for boosted posts and avoid paying Apple's fees. Similarly, Microsoft also stated that the rules limit the options for others to provide subscriptions and discounts to their users. X and Match also voiced complaints against Apple's preventative measures to boost competition.
U.S. Justice Department Preps to Sue Apple
In the U.S., Apple might also face scrutiny for allegedly breaking antitrust laws. According to Bloomberg, the Department of Justice (DOJ) is preparing to sue Apple for its restrive access to iPhone software and hardware features.
As of writing, the claims of the lawsuit have not been disclosed. However, it is already expected that the suit will focus on the monopolistic power of the iOS App Store, similar to the company's issues in the EU.
Previously, Apple was fined $2 billion by the EU Commission for abusing its power on Apple Music and preventing other competitors like Spotify from promoting their alternative services. The company is currently in the process of appealing the decision.
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