Apple Faces Final Hearing in India Antitrust Case

Apple Inc. has failed to submit key financial data requested by India’s antitrust regulator, prompting the Competition Commission of India to move ahead with a final hearing in its case against the company. The watchdog said Apple had not provided details or responded to findings since October 2024, despite multiple opportunities.

The case stems from allegations that Apple abused its dominant position in the iPhone app market by forcing developers to use its in-app purchase system. Apple denies the claims and has challenged India’s antitrust penalty framework in the Delhi High Court, arguing that penalties could reach as high as $38 billion if based on global turnover. The regulator rejected Apple’s request to pause proceedings while the legal challenge is ongoing.

With a final hearing set for May 21, the case has entered a decisive phase. Legal experts say Apple still has a chance to submit financial data to influence potential penalties, but failure to do so could weaken its position. The dispute highlights growing scrutiny of Big Tech firms in India, an increasingly important market where Apple has been expanding its presence.

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