EU warns Apple over geo-blocking practices on app and iTunes stores

The European Union has issued a warning to Apple, urging the tech giant to address its geo-blocking policies on the App Store, iTunes, and other media services, as they may violate consumer protection laws within the bloc.

According to a recent statement from the European Commission, these practices discriminate against users based on their location, restricting consumer access and payment options across borders within the EU.

This warning arrives amid a series of regulatory challenges for Apple in Europe. Last week, the company faced its first fine under the EU's new Digital Markets Act (DMA) for preventing app developers from directing users to alternative, cheaper options. Apple was also hit with a €1.8 billion fine earlier for similar competitive breaches under traditional EU competition law.

An investigation conducted by the European Commission, in collaboration with national consumer authorities, revealed that Apple’s payment policy limits users to cards issued in their account’s country of origin, blocking cross-border transactions. Additionally, users cannot download apps from other EU country-specific App Stores, effectively enforcing geo-restrictions across the union.

Apple has been given a one-month period to respond to these findings and propose solutions to amend its practices. National consumer protection authorities in the EU hold the power to impose fines for violations, with the Commission often working closely with these bodies to ensure compliance and uphold consumer rights across the bloc.

As of now, Apple has not responded to requests for comment regarding this issue.