The European Commission has launched a new antitrust investigation into Apple’s App Store rules, widening scrutiny of the company’s conduct under the bloc’s Digital Markets Act. Officials familiar with the matter said regulators are examining whether Apple’s policies unfairly limit competition and disadvantage developers.

The probe adds to mounting pressure on Big Tech companies as the EU sharpens enforcement of its digital competition laws. Apple has repeatedly argued that its App Store rules are designed to protect users and maintain platform security, but critics say the company’s policies can steer developers into a restrictive and expensive ecosystem.

The investigation could lead to further demands for changes to Apple’s business practices if regulators conclude the company has breached the law. The Digital Markets Act gives the European Commission broader powers to police dominant online platforms and curb practices that it views as anti-competitive.

The fresh review underscores how the EU is using its new regulatory tools to challenge the market power of major tech firms. For Apple, the case could bring more legal and financial pressure as it works to defend one of the most tightly controlled app marketplaces in the world.

App store rules

EU opens fresh antitrust probe into Apple’s App Store rules