Apple’s Costly Privacy Ploy: Italy Slaps €98.6 Million Fine for Competition Squeeze
Italy slapped Apple with a €98.6 million fine, claiming its App Tracking Transparency feature was a bit too exclusive. Apparently, Apple’s “you shall not pass” attitude toward third-party developers didn’t sit well with the regulators. While Apple’s apps get the VIP treatment, others are stuck in the double-consent line.
Hot Take:
Looks like Apple’s App Tracking Transparency feature might be transparent alright—transparently anti-competitive! Italy’s regulatory watchdogs are calling foul, and Apple’s wallet is about to get a little lighter to the tune of €98.6 million. Who knew that keeping an eye on privacy could cost so much?
Key Points:
- Italy fined Apple €98.6 million for anti-competitive practices related to its App Tracking Transparency (ATT) feature.
- The Italian Competition Authority says Apple abused its dominant App Store position, making developers jump through double-consent hoops.
- The ruling states Apple’s ATT policy is disproportionate and could have achieved privacy goals without additional burdens on third-party developers.
- Apple plans to appeal, insisting its privacy policies apply equally to all developers.
- Earlier this year, France also fined Apple €150 million for similar practices.
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