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The EU has taken the first steps towards a formal investigation into Apple, over a decision to cut off access to some applications that bypass its app store as Brussels steps up scrutiny over the iPhone-maker’s business.
The bloc’s competition regulators sent questions to developers last week seeking to determine the impact of Apple’s decision to disable so-called “progressive web apps” in the EU, in a move seen as a precursor towards an in-depth probe.
Apple has said that, from next month, it will disable access to the web apps in the EU. The feature allows companies to create apps that can be accessed as a webpage, with a button that appears on a mobile user’s home screen.
The company said cutting off PWAs was part of an effort to comply with the Digital Markets Act, arguing browsers other than its own Safari software would expose users to security and privacy risks that were not permitted under the law.
However, the move also cuts off a route to developers seeking to avoid the 30 per cent commission fees that Apple charges for purchases made through its App Store.
In response to questions from the Financial Times, the European Commission said: “We are indeed looking at the compliance packages of all gatekeepers, including Apple.
“In that context, we’re in particular looking into the issue of progressive web apps, and can confirm sending the requests for information to Apple and to app developers, who can provide useful information for our assessment.”
Apple declined to comment but pointed to an earlier statement that said: “We expect this change to affect a small number of users. Still, we regret any impact this change — that was made as part of the work to comply with the DMA — may have on developers of Home Screen web apps and our users.”
The EU’s move comes as it imposes new scrutiny on the iPhone maker, particularly over the company’s $85bn-a-year services business. Next month, the EU is also set to impose its first fine — which people familiar with the matter suggest will be in the region of €500mn — for allegedly breaking EU law over access to its music streaming services.
The EU’s probe into web apps would come after the March 6 deadline for companies to comply with the terms of the DMA, landmark legislation designed to tackle the power of Big Tech groups.
EU officials said formal proceedings could be prevented if Apple made further concessions. The DMA allows the EU to fine companies up to 10 per cent of annual turnover, rising to 20 per cent in repeat cases.
This month, Apple unveiled a series of changes to its iOS mobile software in Europe in an effort to comply with the DMA, such as allowing users to download apps from other sources and access alternative payment systems.
Critics, including Meta and Microsoft, said that Apple had included a series of additional fees that would discourage rivals from building alternative app stores.
Thierry Breton, the EU’s internal markets commissioner, said: “Any company found not to be compliant [with the DMA] will face strong sanctions.”