According to network sources, the main regulator of the European Union, represented by the European Commission, is preparing to impose a fine of 500 million euros on the American company Apple for violating anti-monopoly legislation in the field of music streaming operating in the region. The regulator is expected to announce the penalty next month.

The fact that Apple violated the European Union’s anti-monopoly legislation in the field of music streaming was detected during the investigation that started in 2019. At the time, Spotify claimed Apple’s App Store policies forced the streaming service to raise its monthly subscription price to cover costs. The fact is that Apple charges a 30% commission for payments made through its system, due to which third-party developers are forced to increase the cost of the services they provide. In addition, it was revealed that Apple was not informing users about alternative streaming services, leaving them without cheaper alternatives.

The European Commission considered Apple’s actions to be anti-competitive and violate the legislation in force in the European Union. The regulator is expected to accuse Apple of using its dominant position in the iOS-based device segment to impose its own terms on rivals. Please note that this penalty will be the first penalty imposed on Apple in the European Union. According to EU legislation, the American company can be fined up to 10 percent of its annual turnover.