The US Justice Department has launched a sweeping legal challenge against Apple, accusing the Silicon Valley behemoth of unlawfully dominating the smartphone market through anti-competitive practices.
In a landmark antitrust lawsuit filed on Thursday, federal prosecutors allege Apple has employed a 'web of exclusionary practices' to lock consumers into its ecosystem while suppressing rival technologies. The case represents one of the most significant regulatory actions against the $2.7 trillion company in its 48-year history.
Key Allegations Against Apple
- Blocking competing apps and services from key iPhone features
- Restricting third-party smartwatch functionality with iOS
- Limiting cross-platform messaging interoperability
- Manipulating search results to favor Apple products
Attorney General Merrick Garland stated: 'Apple has maintained monopoly power in the smartphone market not simply by staying ahead of the competition, but by violating federal antitrust law.'
Potential Consequences
If successful, the lawsuit could force Apple to:
- Open its App Store to third-party payment systems
- Allow alternative app marketplaces on iOS
- Improve compatibility with non-Apple devices
- Disclose more about its search ranking algorithms
The case comes as global regulators increasingly scrutinize Big Tech's market dominance. Apple has vowed to vigorously defend against the allegations, calling the lawsuit 'wrong on the facts and the law.'
