The United States Justice Department, in collaboration with 16 state and district attorneys general, has taken legal action against Apple, alleging the tech giant of unlawfully monopolizing the smartphone market. Filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, the complaint accuses Apple of imposing contractual restrictions on developers and withholding critical access points to maintain its monopoly over smartphones.

According to Attorney General Merrick B. Garland, such actions by Apple have resulted in higher prices for consumers and limited choices for developers, thereby undermining competition in the smartphone market. Garland emphasized the Justice Department's commitment to enforcing antitrust laws to protect consumers and ensure fair competition.

Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco echoed Garland's sentiments, reaffirming the principle that no company is above the law. Monaco emphasized the Justice Department's dedication to upholding this principle through legal action against Apple.

Acting Associate Attorney General Benjamin C. Mizer emphasized the detrimental impact of anticompetitive behavior on the economy and consumers. Mizer stated that the lawsuit against Apple sends a strong message that the Justice Department will use all available tools to combat anticompetitive practices and promote economic justice.

Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Kanter of the Justice Department's Antitrust Division underscored the importance of holding Apple accountable for its anticompetitive actions. Kanter asserted that the lawsuit aims to prevent Apple from employing similar unlawful tactics in other essential markets.

The complaint against Apple outlines several instances of anticompetitive behavior, including blocking innovative super apps, suppressing mobile cloud streaming services, limiting functionality for non-Apple smartwatches, and restricting third-party digital wallets.

Apple Inc., a publicly traded company based in Cupertino, California, reported substantial annual revenues and net income in fiscal year 2023. The full complaint can be accessed via the provided link.

Source: adapted from an article by Baytan Uğur Yem, Author for Mobidictum.