EU Closes Apple E-book Antitrust Probe

The European Commission (EC) has concluded its antitrust investigation into Apple's e-book and audiobook app rules without further action.

The investigation, opened in 2020, focused on Apple's requirement for competing apps to use its in-app payment system and its prevention of developers informing customers about alternative payment options (anti-steering). This practice is similar to the one investigated in the music-streaming case, where Apple was fined $2 billion. Learn more about the EU's probe here.

The EC closed the e-book/audiobook investigation due to the complainant withdrawing their complaint. However, this closure doesn't imply Apple's practices comply with EU competition rules. For related news on Apple and regulatory scrutiny, see UK CMA Challenges Apple's Safari Dominance on iPhones.

Key Highlights

• The EC's antitrust investigation into Apple's e-book and audiobook app rules has been closed.
• The investigation focused on in-app payment systems and anti-steering practices.
• The complainant withdrew their complaint, leading to the closure.
• The closure doesn't confirm Apple's compliance with EU competition rules.

This outcome contrasts with the music-streaming case, where Apple faced a substantial fine. For more on Apple's recent activities, check out Apple Boosts Indonesia Investment After iPhone 16 Ban.