The European Union previously imposed fines totaling €700 million on Apple and Meta. These sanctions came in April 2025 over alleged violations of the Digital Markets Act, which the EU adopted in 2022. The legislation aims to make it easier for smaller companies to enter a market dominated by major technology players. Apple was fined €500 million, or about CZK 12.4 billion, for making it difficult for consumers to download software for Apple devices outside its app store. Meta faced a €200 million fine, approximately CZK 4.96 billion, over its "pay or consent" system, under which European users must either allow data tracking to use social networks or pay a subscription fee.
Agreement Nears
Apple and Meta are now in advanced talks with European Union regulators to settle these antitrust cases. According to reports from the Financial Times, an agreement could prevent further escalating sanctions, including potential daily fines of up to 5% of the companies' global daily revenue. The agreement would require both companies to adjust their business practices to comply with the Digital Markets Act. Regulators are now reviewing the proposed changes and seeking to ensure they are effective enough to open up the market.
Changes at Apple
In Apple's case, regulators argued that the company made it difficult for consumers to download apps from outside the app store, something the Digital Markets Act explicitly requires it to allow. As part of the agreement, Apple has proposed changes that would make it easier to access third-party offerings and alternative payment systems. This could give users of devices such as the iPhone a genuine option to download apps from other sources, supporting the emergence of alternative digital app stores. Apple is thus responding to pressure to open up its ecosystem and enable greater competition among developers.
Changes at Meta
For Meta, regulators demanded changes to the "pay or consent" system, which gives European consumers a choice between allowing data tracking in exchange for free use of social apps or paying a subscription fee. Meta is now working to make this system clearer and easier to use, with better options for users who want to protect their data. These changes are intended to ensure that consumers have a genuine choice without unnecessary barriers, which could affect how Meta collects data in Europe.
The entire situation underscores the European Union's push for greater transparency and competition in the digital market, where Apple and Meta rank among the largest players. If the agreement goes through, it could set a precedent for other technology companies in similar disputes.
Source: ft.com
