Apple under EU Investigation for Disabling Progressive Web Apps, Facing Regulatory Scrutiny

Key Takeaway

• EU initiates investigation into Apple for disabling "progressive web apps" to ensure compliance with the Digital Markets Act, citing security concerns.
• Apple's move impacts developers by potentially circumventing the App Store's 30% commission fees, affecting a small user base.
• Amid regulatory scrutiny, Apple faces potential fines up to 10% of annual turnover for violations, despite efforts to align with EU regulations through policy adjustments.

EU Investigation into Apple

The European Union has initiated steps towards a formal investigation into Apple over its decision to disable access to certain applications that bypass its app store. This move by the EU competition regulators is seen as a precursor to a more in-depth probe. Apple's decision to cut off "progressive web apps" in the EU has raised concerns and prompted questions from developers regarding the impact of this action.

"We are indeed looking at the compliance packages of all gatekeepers, including Apple," stated the European Commission in response to queries. The issue of progressive web apps is under scrutiny, with requests for information sent to Apple and app developers to gather insights for assessment. Apple's rationale for disabling PWAs is to comply with the Digital Markets Act, citing security and privacy risks associated with browsers other than its Safari software.

Impact on Developers and Users

The move to disable PWAs not only aligns with regulatory requirements but also addresses concerns related to commission fees. By cutting off this access route, Apple aims to ensure compliance with the law while also safeguarding user security and privacy. However, this decision may have repercussions for developers seeking to circumvent the 30% commission fees charged by Apple for App Store purchases.

"We expect this change to affect a small number of users. Still, we regret any impact this change may have on developers of Home Screen web apps and our users," Apple stated. The company's efforts to comply with the DMA have led to adjustments in its policies and practices, impacting both developers and users in the EU.

Regulatory Scrutiny and Consequences

The EU's increased scrutiny on Apple, particularly regarding its services business, underscores the growing regulatory pressure on the tech giant. With the impending imposition of fines for alleged violations of EU law, Apple faces significant challenges in navigating the regulatory landscape. The DMA, aimed at addressing the dominance of Big Tech companies, empowers the EU to levy fines of up to 10% of annual turnover, with potential escalation in repeat cases.

Formal proceedings against Apple could be avoided if the company makes further concessions to address regulatory concerns. Recent changes introduced by Apple to comply with the DMA, such as enabling app downloads from alternative sources and access to different payment systems, reflect the company's efforts to align with EU regulations. However, criticisms from industry players like Meta and Microsoft highlight ongoing concerns about Apple's practices and the impact on competition in the app marketplace.