Apple Challenges 5 Million Euro European Commission Fine, Heading to Court Over App Store Operation Freedom
In April 2025, the EU (European Union) imposed a 5 million euro (approximately 5.8 billion yen) fine on Apple for violating the Digital Markets Act (DMA) by prohibiting external payment links for in-app purchases. In response, Apple formally filed an appeal against the fine with the General Court of the European Union on July 7.
1. Background: The DMA and Anti-Steering Obligations
1-1. Overview of the DMA
The DMA is a set of rules designed to ensure fair competition for massive platform operators designated as "gatekeepers." In particular, it includes obligations such as prohibiting "anti-steering," which prevents developers from including links that allow users to pay externally.
1-2. Allegations of Violation
The European Commission determined that Apple was technically and commercially obstructing developers from using external payment links or guidance within the App Store, leading to the decision in April 2025 to impose a 5 million euro fine, the first sanction for a DMA violation.
2. Apple's Response and Fine Details
2-1. Revised App Store Rules
In June, following the imposition of the fine, Apple significantly revised its App Store terms for the EU. It introduced a complex fee structure, such as a "5% commission + technology usage fee," to allow developers to use external payment methods alongside its own.
2-2. Structure of the Fine
In addition to the initial 5 million euro fine, further sanctions of 5% of daily revenue (approximately 50 million euros per day) were planned if the revisions were deemed insufficient.
3. Apple's Arguments
The company emphasized the following points in a statement:
The fine is "unprecedented and abnormal," and exceeds the scope of the law.
The EU is "managing store operations and forcing commercial terms that are confusing for developers and users."
They argue that the EU is interfering too much with the way the App Store is operated, infringing on the platform's operational freedom.
4. The EU's Perspective and Future Developments
4-1. The European Commission's Stance
The Commission criticized Apple's proposed revisions, stating they "do not incorporate market feedback," and has suggested increasing the fines while demanding further changes if necessary.
4-2. Outlook for the Appeal Process
Apple will contest the decision by appealing to the General Court of the European Union. Following the verdict, there is a possibility of further appeal to the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) if necessary. The resolution is expected to take several years.
5. Analysis from a Professional Perspective
5-1. Competition Law vs. Platform Autonomy
While the DMA was formulated to curb the market dominance of large platforms, there are concerns that if regulations intervene too deeply into details, it could restrict free innovation and unique UX design. Apple's appeal can be seen as a litmus test to determine the
boundary of how far regulators can intervene.
5-2. Impact on Member States and Other Platform Operators
Like the App Store, Google Play, Amazon, and others are also subject to external payment link regulations. Depending on the court's decision, it could ripple out to platform operation rules across Europe, potentially affecting each company.
Currently, Apple and the European Commission are in a "power game" in court.
Apple has appealed, arguing "excessive interference" and seeking to protect its operational freedom.
The EU remains firm in its stance that "regulations are necessary to protect the interests of consumers and developers."
The conclusion of the upcoming appeal trial could become an important precedent for the scope of platform regulation. It is essential for experts and stakeholders to continue following the decisions of the EU courts and the developments of each platform case.
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