ACM can continue its investigation into the Apple App Store

The investigation of the Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) into Apple’s App Store complements the investigations of the European Commission into the App Store. All of these investigations can be conducted next to each other, so ACM can continue with its investigation into the App Store.

What has been the matter?

European rules stipulate that, if the European Commission and a national competition authority conduct similar investigations at the same company, the national authority must end its investigation. ACM and the European Commission closely coordinate ACM’s investigation with those of the Commission.

ACM is investigating whether Apple abuses its dominant position. In that context, ACM looks at the conditions that Apple attaches to the use of the App Store by app providers that offer apps that do not compete with Apple’s apps, especially apps related to online dating in the Netherlands. The European Commission is investigating whether Apple creates any barriers for apps that do compete directly with Apple’s apps, such as music-streaming apps.

ACM’s investigation is still ongoing. It is expected to be completed later this year. ACM and the European Commission have regular discussions about this investigation.