Apple is poised to avoid a potential fine and an EU ruling regarding its browser settings on iPhones after making adjustments to conform with historic EU regulations meant to restrain Big Tech on Tuesday.
Take Away Points:
- Apple is set to stave off a possible fine and an EU order over its browser options on iPhones after it made changes to comply with landmark EU rules aimed at reining in Big Tech.
- Apple will hold its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) from June 9 to June 13, it said on Tuesday.
Apple plans to stave off EU fine into browser options
The European Commission, which launched an investigation in March last year under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), is expected to close its investigation early next week, the people said.
It had been concerned that Apple’s design of the web browser screen on its iPhones may hinder users from switching to a rival browser or search engine.
The EU decision will come amid tensions with U.S. President Donald Trump who has threatened to slap tariffs against countries that levy fines against U.S. companies.
The DMA sets out a list of dos and don’ts for Big Tech, aiming to make it easier for people to move between competing online services like social media platforms, internet browsers and app stores and open up space for smaller rivals to compete.
Companies risk fines as much as 10% of their global annual sales for DMA breaches.
The Commission’s decision to close the investigation early next week will come at the same time as it hands out fines to Apple and Meta Platforms for DMA violations and orders to comply with the legislation, the people said.
In this second Apple case, the issue is whether the company imposes restrictions that hinder app developers from informing users about offers outside its App Store free of charge.
The Meta case concerns its no-ads subscription service in Europe in November 2023 that has triggered criticism from rivals and users, with regulators saying the company should offer free alternative options.
Apple to hold Worldwide Developers Conference from June 9
Apple announced on Tuesday that the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) will take place from June 9 to June 13.
The event, accesible online, will highlight updates to the software powering iPhones, iPads and other Apple devices, the company said.
Apple said some developers and students will be invited to attend in person at Apple Park on the opening day.
Investors closely monitor the conference as product enhancements announced during the event could help the iPhone maker attract new customers.
Smartphone makers like Samsung and China’s Xiaomi are jostling for a larger share of the market by adding AI features to their devices and investments in low-end devices.
At last year’s conference, Apple unveiled a range of AI-enabled features that included new capabilities such as rewriting emails and summarizing a cluttered inbox.
Recently, the company said that some AI improvements to its voice assistant, Siri, will be delayed until 2026, without providing an explanation. The iPhone maker had previously indicated the features would come in 2025.
Apple said it will share additional information about the conference through the Apple Developer app and the WWDC25 website.
