EU demands explanation from Apple for barring Epic Games.

The EU is questioning Apple's refusal to let Epic Games launch a rival app store, a move that may violate new digital market regulations, amidst ongoing debates over compliance and past contractual breaches.

iOS - 11-03-2024 05:10

 

EU regulators have demanded an explanation from Apple for its decision to block Epic Games from introducing a third-party app store, suggesting the move might breach the law. After a prolonged legal dispute stemming from Apple terminating Epic's developer account in August 2020 for violating App Store rules, Epic sought to re-enter the iPhone ecosystem by applying for a new developer account. This was in response to EU regulations mandating Apple to permit alternative app stores within its territory. However, Apple's refusal to approve Epic's application, citing the company's prior contract breaches and labeling it as "verifiably untrustworthy," has led to further scrutiny under the newly effective Digital Markets Act (DMA) as of March 7, 2024. The EU is investigating whether Apple's actions comply with various regulations, including the Digital Services Act (DSA) and Platform to Business Regulation (P2B), given the significant role of the App Store. Despite this, Apple maintains its stance, emphasizing Epic's breach of agreements and asserting its right to terminate relations with Epic or its affiliates.

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