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Apple loses EU court battle over Digital Markets Act gatekeeper designation

economy-finance · 2026-07-08

The General Court of the European Union dismissed Apple's legal challenges against its designation as a gatekeeper under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which has been in effect since May 2023. The ruling applies to Apple's App Store and iOS, while a challenge regarding iMessage was ruled inadmissible. The DMA imposes strict rules on Big Tech companies, with fines up to 10% of global annual turnover for non-compliance. Apple criticized the DMA, arguing it threatens user privacy and security. The decision strengthens EU antitrust regulators' position in curbing Big Tech dominance.

Key facts

  • The EU General Court dismissed Apple's challenges against its gatekeeper designation under the Digital Markets Act.
  • The DMA took effect in May 2023.
  • The ruling applies to Apple's App Store and iOS.
  • Apple's challenge regarding iMessage was ruled inadmissible.
  • The DMA imposes fines of up to 10% of global annual turnover for violations.
  • Apple, Meta, and ByteDance have all filed legal challenges against the DMA.
  • The General Court is based in Luxembourg.
  • Apple reiterated its criticism of the DMA, citing privacy and security concerns.

Entities

Institutions

  • Apple
  • Meta
  • ByteDance
  • General Court of the European Union
  • European Union

Locations

  • Luxembourg
  • European Union

Sources