Indian Antitrust Investigation Finds Apple Guilty of Market Abuse (Report)

India’s antitrust body has concluded an investigation into Apple, revealing that the company engaged in ‘abusive conduct and practices’ by exploiting its dominant position in the iOS app store market, according to a report by Reuters.

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has been investigating Apple since 2021 for alleged antitrust violations, specifically for forcing developers to use its in-app purchase system. The agency’s investigations unit has reportedly compiled a 142-page report detailing how Apple exerts ‘significant influence’ over the distribution of digital products and services to consumers.

The CCI’s investigations unit, in its 142-page report which is not public but was seen by Reuters, said Apple wields “significant influence” over how digital products and services reach consumers, especially 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 choice but to adhere to Apple’s unfair terms, including the mandatory use of Apple’s proprietary billing and payment system,” the CCI unit said in the June 24 report.

Now that the report is complete, it will be reviewed by the CCI’s senior officials. Apple and other relevant parties will be given an opportunity to respond before a final decision is reached. Depending on the result, Apple could be subject to monetary fines and directives to change its business practices.

Apple is facing increased regulatory pressure across the globe, especially in Europe where the European Commission has forced it to allow third party apps and open up the iPhone’s NFC capabilities to third party wallets.

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