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The European Commission is reportedly close to announcing it will file antitrust charges against Apple after investigating Spotify's allegations that Apple is unfairly treating Apple Music's competitors and putting them at a disadvantage.
Since May 2019, the European Union's antitrust authority has been investigating an allegation by Spotify that Apple is treating competitors unfairly. Now it is reported that a decision could be announced in the coming weeks. According to Reuters declared Two sources report that Apple may be served with a statement of objections. This so-called "charge sheet" typically includes a fine but also specifies what measures the company must take to end its anti-competitive practices. There has been no confirmation yet of a fine or charges.
Apple & antitrust law: Great Britain also wants to investigate
There's also no indication of what measures Apple will be required to take. Reuters reports, however, that according to its sources, the EU could force changes to Apple's business model—if necessary through legal action. Spotify originally complained that Apple was restricting access to its technologies like Siri. In 2020, Spotify CEO Daniel Ek stated that the company was now allowed to "finally use Siri to build in voice assistance." News of the alleged EU decision comes shortly after the UK announced a similar antitrust investigation. The UK Competition and Markets Authority is the latest to launch antitrust investigations into Apple. (Photo by AndreyPril / Bigstockphoto)
