The European Union has fined major tech giants Apple and Meta €500 million and €200 million respectively, marking the first major penalties under the Digital Markets Act (DMA). Introduced in 2023, the legislation aims to curb Big Tech’s dominance and promote fair competition.
The fines follow a year-long investigation by the European Commission into whether the companies were complying with the DMA. Apple was accused of restricting users from moving to cheaper alternatives outside its App Store, while Meta’s “pay or consent” model was deemed to be in breach of the rules.
Both companies have vowed to challenge the rulings, saying the EU’s actions are unfair and hurt innovation. Meanwhile, tensions with Washington are rising, with US President Donald Trump denouncing the penalties as “economic blackmail”.
Other tech giants such as Google and Elon Musk’s X are likely to follow suit as the EU continues to enforce the rules.
