Spain is investigating Apple’s App Store for anti-competitive practices. If found guilty, Apple will have to pay a massive fine.
Spain is Investigation Apple for Anti-Competitive Behavior when it Comes to App Store
According to Reuters, Spain has launched an investigation into the App Store for anti-competitive practices, though Apple has denied the allegations. The investigation will take about two years to conclude, if Apple is found guilty, the company will be forced to pay a hefty fine of 10% of company’s global revenues.
Apple has given an official statement where it says it provides a level playing field to everyone, including Spanish developers. Apple further added that it is going to work with the Spanish Competition Authority to ensure everything is fair and address all their concerns.
This isn’t the first time the App Store is on the radar. At this point, the entire world believes Apple is involved in anti-competitive behavior and treats developers unfairly. However, Apple charges a flat fee of 30% on all earnings made by developers. Think of that fee as rent everyone has to pay if you want access to a huge market of millions of iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple Watch users around the globe.
The European Union recently found Apple guilty and forced the company to allow third-party app stores and an alternative payment mechanism.
Ultimately, nothing in the world is free, and even companies like Epic Games, that advocates for a more fair App Store practices charges a fee on its store. It’s irony at its finest.
