EU targets Apple, Google, and Meta over Antitrust concerns
The European Commission today announced it has launched a major crackdown on the business practices of Big Tech giants, opening formal antitrust investigations against Alphabet (Google), Apple, and Meta (Facebook).
![EU targets Apple, Google, and Meta over Antitrust concerns](/content/images/size/w2000/2024/03/EU-Regulation-1.webp)
The European Commission today announced it has launched a major crackdown on the business practices of Big Tech giants, opening formal antitrust investigations against Alphabet (Google), Apple, and Meta (Facebook). This marks the first wave of enforcement actions under the bloc's sweeping new Digital Markets Act (DMA).
The probes focus on suspected violations of regulations designed to promote competition and fair access in the digital sector. The investigations come just weeks after the DMA took effect in March 2024.
Key Allegations:
- Alphabet (Google): Accused of unfairly pushing its own services in Google Play app store and in Google Search results, potentially harming competitors.
- Apple: Faces scrutiny over restrictions in its App Store and whether it unfairly limits users' ability to switch default browsers and search engines.
- Meta (Facebook): The Commission is examining Meta's "pay or consent" model, which requires users to agree to the platform's collection and use of personal data in exchange for access to its services.
Potential Consequences
If the Commission finds the companies broke the rules, it could impose massive fines up to 10% of each firm's global revenue, or even 20% for repeat offenses. In severe cases, the EU could force structural changes like the breakup of businesses.
The Companies Respond
Apple, Google, and Meta have not yet issued formal statements in response to the EU's actions. However, these companies have previously defended their practices and are likely to contest the allegations vigorously.
Wider Context
This move by European regulators highlights the increasing global scrutiny of the power and influence of Big Tech. The DMA is a landmark piece of legislation that aims to restrict the ability of these tech giants to act as "gatekeepers" in the digital economy.
PPC Land is an international news publication headquartered in Frankfurt, Germany. PPC Land delivers daily articles brimming with the latest news for marketing professionals of all experience levels.
Subscribe to our newsletter for just $10/year and get marketing news delivered straight to your inbox. By subscribing, you are supporting PPC Land.
You can also follow PPC Land on LinkedIn, Bluesky, Reddit, Mastodon, X, Facebook, Threads, and Google News.
Know more about us or contact us via info@ppc.land
Our latest marketing news:
- Amazon launches Target Promotion for Sponsored Products advertisers
- Amazon Prime Video secures landmark NBA and WNBA broadcasting rights deal
- FTC Warns: Hashed data not anonymous, companies risk deceptive practice claims
- Taboola unveils AI-powered solution to boost publisher traffic amid digital shifts
- Meta tackles Nigerian financial Sextortion Scams in massive account purge
- FTC launches probe into surveillance pricing practices of eight companies
- Location-based advertising: revolutionizing digital marketing strategies
- Reddit's exclusive Search Deal with Google raises concerns over AI Data
- Netflix surges in Nielsen rankings, streaming dominates TV consumption
- Kargo and TikTok partner to enhance offline sales insights for advertisers