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The EU has taken its first steps toward a formal investigation into Apple, over its decision to cut off access to some apps that bypass its app store as Brussels steps up scrutiny of the iPhone maker’s operations.
Union competition regulators last week sent questions to developers seeking to determine the impact of Apple’s decision to block so-called “progressive web apps” in the EU, in a move seen as a precursor to an in-depth investigation.
Apple said it will block access to web apps in the EU from next month. This feature allows businesses to create applications that can be accessed as a web page, with a button that appears on the mobile user’s home screen.
The company said the exclusion of PWAs was part of an effort to comply with the Digital Markets Act, arguing that browsers other than its own Safari software would expose users to security and privacy risks not permitted under the law.
However, the move also cuts off the path for developers who want to avoid the 30 percent commission that Apple charges on App Store purchases.
In response to questions from the Financial Times, the European Commission said: “We are indeed looking at the compliance packages of all the gatekeepers, including Apple.
“In this context, we are specifically looking into the issue of progressive web apps and can confirm sending requests for information to Apple and app developers, who may 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. However, we regret any impact this change — which was made as part of DMA compliance work — may have on home screen web application developers and our users.”
The EU’s move comes as it imposes new oversight on the iPhone maker, particularly over the company’s $85 billion-a-year services. Next month, the EU is also due to impose its first fine – which people in the know suggest will be around €500m – for alleged breaches of EU law relating to access to music streaming services.
The EU investigation into web apps will follow a March 6 deadline for companies to comply with the terms of the DMA, a landmark law designed to tackle the power of big tech groups.
EU officials have said formal proceedings could be prevented if Apple makes further concessions. The DMA allows the EU to fine companies up to 10 percent of annual turnover, rising to 20 percent in repeated cases.
This month, Apple unveiled a number 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 Apple included a series of additional fees that would discourage competitors from building alternative app stores.
Thierry Breton, European Commissioner for Internal Markets, said: “Any company found to be non-compliant [with the DMA] will face severe sanctions.”