Dutch Antitrust Regulator Slaps Apple With Another 5 Million Euro Fine

The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) has issued Apple a fine of 5 million euros ($5.7 million) for the sixth time for not complying with an order to allow alternative forms of payment for dating apps in the App Store, Reuters is reporting.

App store

Meanwhile, Apple has sent a letter to the Dutch antitrust regulator arguing it has already complied with the watchdog’s order. In reply, the ACM has issued a statement saying it was not aware of any change in Apple’s position so it imposed the new weekly fine.

According to the government watchdog, Apple is required to allow developers of dating apps to use third-party payment systems, and it must let those developers communicate the availability of those payment systems from inside their apps.

A letter from Apple to the ACM dated Feb. 28 seen by Reuters said the solution it has offered would require only a “minor technical change” with no additional costs.

“I understand that currently, we have a difference of opinion that may ultimately have to be resolved by a court,” the letter signed by Apple Chief Compliance Officer Kyle Andeer said.

“I hope we can find a mutually agreeable solution that will allow us to move past this issue.”

Apple’s letter argued it is common practice for developers to modify their software to comply with the law in various jurisdictions.

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