Apple — App Store music streaming (EU)

On iPhones, most apps are installed through Apple's App Store. Apple charges developers a commission on many digital purchases and sets detailed rules on payments and marketing.

Music streaming services complained they pay Apple a cut on subscriptions while Apple Music does not face the same fee. Worse, they said, Apple banned them from mentioning lower prices available on their websites.

The European Commission concluded Apple abused a dominant position in iOS app distribution for music streaming by applying anti-steering rules that distorted competition.

Parallel EU Digital Markets Act duties now require Apple to offer more choice in the EU—alternative app marketplaces, link-outs, and default app controls—though implementation remains contested.

App store rules decide whether small developers can reach customers without paying a platform tax.

Anti-steering bans affect what price information you see inside apps you already use.

The case connects classic abuse-of-dominance law with new DMA gatekeeper regulation.

Apple dominates distribution of music streaming apps on iOS.

Mandatory in-app payment and anti-steering rules raised rival costs and limited consumer choice.

Apple's conduct was not justified by security or quality arguments alone.

Apple says its App Store protects users from fraud and malware.

It argues the commission is wrong on market definition and that developers benefit from Apple's ecosystem.

Apple maintains it is complying with EU law while challenging aspects of enforcement.

EU iPhone users may see more links to external payment options and alternative app stores over time.

Subscription prices reflect platform fees—even when you never notice the App Store layer.

Ongoing compliance reviews mean the practical experience may keep changing.