Apple’s appeal against the European Union’s €500 million fine has escalated into a battle over the precise definition of “steering” within its App Store. The iPhone maker accuses the European Commission of “unlawfully expanding” this crucial term, which impacts how developers can guide users to external deals.
The hefty penalty, issued in April, stemmed from the Commission’s finding that Apple had violated the Digital Markets Act by preventing app developers from steering users to cheaper deals outside its App Store. The EU’s objective was to promote a more open and competitive digital environment.
Although Apple had recently modified its App Store rules to comply with the EU’s directives and avoid further fines, the company now claims that Brussels is excessively dictating how it manages its platform and imposing “confusing” business terms.
Apple’s core argument in its appeal revolves around the EU’s alleged redefinition of “steering,” which the company believes now includes promoting offers inside an app, not just linking to external websites. This broader interpretation, Apple contends, goes beyond the law’s original intent.