Brussels Fines Apple €500 M, Meta €200 M for Breaking EU Digital Markets Act

The European Commission has slapped Apple with a €500 million fine and Meta with a €200 million penalty after finding both U.S. tech giants in breach of the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), legislation designed to curb the market power of “gatekeeper” platforms and open digital ecosystems to smaller rivals, officials confirmed on Thursday.

Commission investigators concluded that Apple’s App Store rules continue to hinder third‑party music‑streaming services, while Meta’s data‑combination practices allegedly stifle competition in online advertising. Both infringements were deemed “systematic and deliberate,” warranting punitive sanctions under the DMA, which took effect this year.

Apple said it will “vigorously appeal,” arguing the decision “undermines user privacy and security.” Meta, owner of Facebook and Instagram, likewise criticised the ruling as “unjust” and claimed the Commission is “disproportionately targeting American companies.”

U.S. Reaction

Former U.S. President Donald Trump labelled the fines “economic blackmail,” warning of escalating tensions in trans‑atlantic trade relations if the EU “continues shaking down successful American innovators.”

Broader Clampdown

The Commission has separate, ongoing DMA probes into Google’s search‑ad business and X’s user‑data practices. Under the act, repeat offenders can face fines of up to 10 percent of global annual turnover and, in extreme cases, structural remedies.

Analysts say the penalties underscore Brussels’ determination to enforce the landmark law, setting the stage for protracted legal battles that could redefine how Big Tech operates in Europe’s 450‑million‑strong market.