The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has turned down Apple’s plea to stop an investigation into its business practices. The probe, initiated in 2021, accuses Apple of violating Indian competition laws by misusing its dominant position to restrict competition on its iOS app store, negatively impacting both app developers and users.
Apple’s Request Denied
Apple had requested a halt to the investigation report, arguing that the key complainant, Together We Fight Society (TWFS), failed to comply with CCI’s earlier directive to destroy an old report. However, the CCI dismissed Apple’s request as “untenable,” allowing the investigation to proceed.
This legal tussle began earlier this year when Apple contested the CCI’s initial report, claiming it revealed sensitive trade secrets to competitors. The CCI responded by recalling the report in August and instructed all parties involved to destroy the earlier version. A revised investigation report was later issued, which is now under review.
Allegations Against Apple
The case stems from complaints made by TWFS in 2021. The non-profit organization alleged that Apple’s practices unfairly benefited its business while harming competitors and users. According to TWFS, Apple’s control over its app store and payment systems on iOS restricts competition and forces developers to follow stringent terms.
Apple countered these claims by asserting that it is not a major player in the Indian market, which is dominated by Android devices. The company maintains that its actions do not constitute misuse of market dominance.
Apple’s Past Controversies
This is not the first time Apple has faced scrutiny. In June 2024, the company was embroiled in a separate controversy related to its hiring practices in India. A Reuters investigation revealed that job advertisements for iPhone assembly roles between January 2023 and May 2024 set discriminatory criteria, including specific age and marital status requirements for women.
Apple denied involvement, claiming the hiring agents acted independently. Following the backlash, its key manufacturing partner Foxconn instructed hiring agents to remove discriminatory criteria and stop mentioning Foxconn’s name in advertisements.
CCI Investigation Continues
The current antitrust investigation highlights growing concerns about Apple’s control over its app store and its potential to stifle competition. The CCI is examining whether Apple’s policies violate Indian competition laws and harm consumer interests.
As the investigation moves forward, Apple faces increased pressure to justify its practices in India’s competitive tech landscape. With the CCI rejecting its latest plea, the focus remains on ensuring fair trade practices for developers and users alike. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for the tech industry in India.
