India antitrust probe hits Apple for market abuse

• The CCI report will be reviewed by senior officials

The Indian antitrust authority’s ruling said Apple abused its dominant position in the app store market for its iOS operating system.

According to Reuters, this comes from a confidential report seen by the news agency, stating that Apple’s exploits have prompted an investigation. Apple denies wrongdoing, saying it is a minor player in India, where Android devices are more dominant.

However, the CCI report states that Apple has a “significant influence” on digital products and services through its iOS platform and App Store.

“Apple App Store is an unavoidable trading partner for app developers and, as a result, app developers have no other choice but to comply with Apple’s unfair terms and conditions, including the mandatory use of Apple’s proprietary billing and payment system,” the CCI said.

“From an app developer perspective, the Apple iOS ecosystem is irreplaceable.”

What’s next?

Senior officials will review the CCI report, and Apple and other parties may respond to it before making a final decision, which could include imposing fines and issuing other guidelines.

Apple’s antitrust woes aren’t limited to India. The tech giant is facing increased scrutiny around the world. In June, EU regulators found Apple had violated technology rules, which could result in a hefty fine. Apple is also under investigation for new fees on app developers.

In response to the EU’s Digital Market Act, Apple plans to allow software developers to distribute apps outside its App Store in the EU after the end of its dispute with Epic Games.