India’s Antitrust Body Finds Apple Abused Market Dominance

An investigation by India’s antitrust body has found that Apple exploited its dominant position in the market for app stores on its iOS operating system, engaging “in abusive conduct and practices,” according to a confidential report seen by Reuters.

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has been investigating Apple since 2021 for potentially abusing its market position by forcing developers to use its proprietary in-app purchase system, Reuters reported. Apple has consistently denied any wrongdoing, claiming it is a small player in India, where phones using Google’s Android system are more prevalent.

However, the CCI’s investigations unit, in its 142-page report dated June 24, revealed significant findings. The report, which has not been made public but was reviewed by Reuters, stated that Apple wields “significant influence” over how digital products and services reach consumers, particularly through its iOS platform and App Store.

“Apple App Store is an unavoidable trading partner for app developers, and resultantly, app developers have no choice but to adhere to Apple’s unfair terms, including the mandatory use of Apple’s proprietary billing and payment system,” the report stated. “From the perspective of app developers, Apple iOS ecosystem is indispensable.”

Apple and the CCI did not respond to requests for comment on the report.

This investigation adds to the growing scrutiny Apple faces globally. In June, European Union antitrust regulators concluded that Apple had breached the bloc’s tech rules, potentially leading to a substantial fine for the iPhone maker. Additionally, Apple is under investigation in other regions for imposing new fees on app developers.