EU fines Apple $2 billion over Spotify's complaint about 'blocking' alternative music apps

This is the third largest fine from the EU and the first one targeting Apple.

As reported by Engadget, after several months of speculation, the European Commission finally imposed a $1.95 billion fine on Apple for restricting alternative music streaming apps in the App Store.

The story began in 2020 when Spotify complained about Apple "suppressing" its music service in favor of iTunes and Apple Music. After 4 years, the EU Commission finally recognized that Apple violated EU antitrust laws by prohibiting developers from informing users about third-party options for purchasing music subscriptions (referring to placing advertisements or links in apps, or through emails).

Apple used this practice for almost 10 years, thereby forcing iOS users to pay more for music subscriptions than necessary (taking into account its 30% commission, which developers consider when setting the price).

It was previously reported that the EU could impose a fine on Apple of $542.6 million - less than a third of the final amount. However, the commission chose a higher financial penalty as a "deterrent" to prevent further violations. Apple plans to appeal this decision.