€700 million in total fines under the EU Digital Markets Act (DMA) target Apple and Meta for the first enforcement actions since the law’s roll‑out.
Apple faces a €500 million penalty for breaching the DMA’s “anti‑steering” rules that barred developers from directing users to cheaper off‑store options and prevented direct purchases.
Meta receives a €200 million fine for its “consent or pay” model that forced EU users of Facebook and Instagram to choose between data‑combining ads or a paid ad‑free subscription, lacking a less‑data‑intensive alternative.
The companies must comply within 60 days or face “periodic penalty payments,” with the DMA allowing penalties up to 10 % of global revenue (potentially 20 % for repeat violations).
These fines underscore ongoing EU‑US tensions over tech regulation, with the EU citing impartial enforcement and US officials accusing the bloc of “lawfare” against American firms.
Sources
apnews.com - The European Union hits Apple and Meta with 700 million euros in fines, Apr 23
cnn.com - EU whacks Apple and Meta with $800 million in antitrust fines, Apr 23
aljazeera.com - EU slaps Meta, Apple with nearly $800m fines, Apr 23
europa.eu - Commission finds Apple and Meta breach Digital Markets Act, Apr 23