Core Viewpoint - Apple has lost an appeal against a special abuse control regime imposed by Germany's competition watchdog, which will continue to affect its operations in a significant European market [1][2]. Group 1: Regulatory Environment - Germany's Federal Court of Justice has upheld a five-year regulatory designation on Apple, which was applied by the Federal Cartel Office (FCO) in April 2023, aimed at leveling the competitive playing field against digital giants [2]. - The FCO suspects that Apple's App Tracking Transparency framework may constitute self-preferencing, which is prohibited under the special abuse controls regime [3]. Group 2: Company Response - In response to the court's decision, Apple expressed disagreement, emphasizing its role in innovation and competition, while asserting that it faces "fierce competition in Germany" [4]. - Apple highlighted the importance of its business model that prioritizes user privacy and security, which it believes is undervalued by the court's ruling [4]. Group 3: Industry Context - Other major tech companies, including Google, Meta, and Microsoft, are also subject to the FCO's special abuse controls, indicating a broader regulatory scrutiny within the industry [4].