European Commission Orders Apple to Cease Unlawful Geo-blocking Practices

In 2018, European lawmakers implemented the Geo-blocking Regulation to ensure that individuals and businesses within the EU/EEA have equal access to various goods and services. This regulation affects all app platforms functioning within the EU Single Market, notably including the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

Recent Developments: Apple’s Notification

Today, the European Commission formally notified Apple to cease engaging in geo-blocking practices deemed prohibited within its digital storefronts, which encompass the App Store, Apple Arcade, Music, iTunes Store, Books, and Podcasts. Apple is now tasked with aligning its operations with the EU’s stringent anti-geo-blocking regulations.

Investigation Findings

This directive follows a coordinated investigation led by national authorities from Belgium’s Directorate General for Economic Inspection, Germany’s Bundesnetzagentur, and Ireland’s Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, all working under the auspices of the European Commission. The investigation uncovered several restrictive practices affecting consumers across the EU/EEA:

• Online Access: Apple Media Services offer different user interfaces tailored to specific countries within the EU/EEA. Users can only access the interface linked to their registered Apple account’s country, presenting significant barriers to switching, which contravenes the EU’s anti-geo-blocking laws.
• Payment Methods: For purchases made within Apple Media Services, consumers are restricted to using payment methods issued in the country of their registered account, limiting cross-border transactions.
• Downloading Restrictions: The App Store prohibits users from downloading applications available in other EU/EEA nations. This restriction prevents consumers from accessing apps while traveling or temporarily residing in other member states, which is contrary to the regulations.

Next Steps for Apple

Apple is now expected to respond to these findings and take definitive action to rectify the identified geo-blocking issues. Should the tech giant fail to comply, European authorities are prepared to implement regulatory measures to enforce adherence to the Geo-blocking Regulation.

It will be crucial to observe Apple’s response to this situation and the steps it undertakes to align its practices with EU standards.

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