Dutch Competition Watchdog Rejects Apple’s Objections to Fines

Dutch competition watchdog ACM stands firm on Apple fines of 50 million euros ($53 million) for non-compliance with App Store orders.

Apple has mostly complied with ACM’s demands for opening its App Store to alternative payment methods for dating apps, with one undisclosed condition remaining unmet.

ACM’s 2021 Ruling:

In 2021, ACM ruled Apple’s violation of Dutch competition laws in the dating app market, mandating third-party payment processors for dating app developers. Fines escalated to 50 million euros due to non-compliance.

Objections by Apple:

Apple objected to the fines, disputing the regulator’s market definition and the extent of its dominance in the dating app sector.

ACM rejected Apple’s objections, with the decision made on July 13, 2023, publicly disclosed recently.

Apple disagrees with ACM’s order, asserting it diminishes investment incentives and compromises user privacy and data security. Apple intends to appeal to Dutch courts.

ACM pledges to reveal the undisclosed part of the proceedings contested by Apple if it prevails in court.

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