Apple is once again making headlines as the European Union (EU) regulators launch an investigation into the termination of Epic Games’ developer account. This move comes despite Epic Games being approved and reinstated under the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA).
The DMA allows for third-party app stores, like the Epic Games Store, to operate on the App Store. However, Apple decided to terminate Epic Games’ developer account following reports of Epic Games planning to launch its own third-party app store on iOS in the EU. Epic CEO Tim Sweeney accused Apple of violating the DMA in response.
The EU is now seeking answers from Apple regarding this decision. A European Commission spokesperson stated, “We have requested further explanations from Apple under the DMA.”
In a statement addressing the situation, Apple highlighted Epic’s breach of contractual obligations as grounds for termination. The tech giant emphasized its right to terminate agreements with Epic Games’ subsidiaries and affiliates due to their behavior.
As the EU investigates this matter, companies found violating the DMA could face fines up to 10 percent of their total annual global revenue. Repeat offenders may incur fines up to 20 percent under this act.
Stay tuned for updates on how this investigation unfolds and impacts both Apple and Epic Games in the telecommunications industry.
