Apple Faces Antitrust Lawsuit Over Smartphone Market Monopoly
The United States Department of Justice, in collaboration with 15 states, has filed an antitrust lawsuit against Apple for monopolizing the smartphone market.
Allegations Against Apple
- Apple charges up to $1,599 for an iPhone, outperforming its rival companies in terms of earnings.
- Hidden fees are levied on business partners, including software developers and credit card firms, raising consumer costs and boosting Apple’s profits.
Response from Apple
Apple has denied the allegations, stating that the lawsuit threatens the core principles that differentiate its products in the industry.
Lawsuit Details
The 88-page lawsuit filed in U.S. federal court aims at freeing smartphone markets from Apple’s anticompetitive practices and restoring competition to lower smartphone prices, reduce fees for developers, and preserve innovation.
Proposed Remedies
The Justice Department and the District of Columbia seek changes at Apple, including possible break-up or reduction in size to address the harm caused by the alleged anticompetitive conduct.
