Apple(US:AAPL) Zhong Guo Ji Jin Bao·2025-12-22 11:49Core Viewpoint - Apple Inc. has been fined over €98 million by the Italian Competition and Market Authority for allegedly abusing its market dominance through its App Tracking Transparency (ATT) policy, which is seen as limiting competition [1][3][4]. Group 1: Fine Details - The fine imposed on Apple amounts to €98,635,416.67, approximately 814 million yuan [4]. - Apple has expressed strong opposition to the decision and plans to appeal [1]. Group 2: Competition Concerns - The Italian Competition and Market Authority found that Apple's ATT policy, implemented since April 2021, restricts competition by requiring third-party app developers to obtain user consent through a pop-up that does not comply with privacy regulations [3][4]. - The requirement for double consent for data collection is deemed disproportionate and detrimental to developers, advertisers, and intermediary platforms [4]. Group 3: Global Regulatory Actions - Apple has faced multiple fines this year related to its iOS ecosystem and App Store rules, including a €150 million fine from France and a €500 million fine from the European Commission [5]. - Investigations into Apple's ATT policy are ongoing in Germany and Romania, with potential penalties in Poland reaching up to 10% of Apple's annual revenue if violations are confirmed [5][6]. Group 4: Apple's Position - Apple claims that the ATT policy is designed to empower consumers by allowing them to choose whether to permit tracking, thereby enhancing personal privacy [7]. - The company argues that the backlash from the data tracking industry against its efforts to give users control over their data is expected and warns that pressure could lead to the removal of this feature, harming consumer rights [8].