US sues Apple over alleged smartphone market monopoly

The U.S. Department of Justice, joined by 15 states, has filed an antitrust lawsuit against Apple, accusing the company of monopolizing the smartphone market and inflating prices.

The lawsuit targets Apple's pricing strategy, revenue-sharing practices, and control over hardware and software, seeking to introduce more competition and consumer choice.

This case is about freeing smartphone markets from Apple’s anticompetitive and exclusionary conduct and restoring competition to lower smartphone prices for consumers, reducing fees for developers, and preserving innovation for the future,

according to the suit.

Apple denies the allegations, emphasizing its commitment to innovation.

At Apple, we innovate every day to make technology people love — designing products that work seamlessly together, protect people’s privacy and security, and create a magical experience for our users,

the company said in a statement.

This lawsuit threatens who we are and the principles that set Apple products apart in fiercely competitive markets.

The lawsuit cites specific instances where Apple allegedly prevented competition, such as by limiting the functionality of competing apps and imposing strict app store rules.

The lawsuit is very similar to the DMA law in Europe, which is also designed to crack down on monopoly. Because of this law, Apple was forced to allow EU citizens to install third-party app stores on iPhones.

The lawsuit reflects the intense regulatory scrutiny of big tech companies around the world.