EU Antitrust Order Targets Apple's App Store Rules in Spotify Battle

The European Union (EU) is preparing to issue an antitrust order against Apple, potentially resulting in a significant fine and a ban on certain App Store rules. The investigation was prompted by a complaint from Spotify, which accused Apple of forcing it to raise subscription prices due to the App Store's alleged stranglehold on how it operates. The EU's decision, expected in early 2023, could impose a fine of up to 10% of Apple's annual sales. Apple has made some concessions, such as allowing music services to direct users to the web for subscriptions, but Spotify claims the restrictions still exist. The EU's crackdown on App Store rules aligns with similar actions in the US, where Google was recently found to unfairly wield monopoly power.