“Bad for Users”: Apple Appeals €500M EU Fine Over App Store Terms

Apple is mounting a legal challenge against the European Union’s €500 million fine, asserting that the EU’s demands are leading to business terms that are “bad for users” within its App Store. This appeal intensifies the regulatory skirmish between the US tech giant and Brussels.
The substantial fine was levied in April after the European Commission concluded that Apple had violated the Digital Markets Act. The alleged breach involved Apple’s prevention of app developers from directing users to more cost-effective deals located outside of its App Store.
Even after making changes to its App Store rules to comply with the EU’s order and avoid substantial daily fines, Apple now claims that Brussels is mandating the operation of its store and enforcing “confusing” business terms. The company argues these terms are detrimental to both developers and the end-users.
Apple’s appeal also highlights a dispute over the EU’s expanded definition of “steering,” arguing that the Commission has broadened this term beyond allowing links to external websites, now encompassing in-app promotions, which adds complexity for developers.