The European Union has formally requested that Apple cease using geo-blocking, a practice that restricts access to content based on a user’s location. According to Reuters, the EU is targeting geo-blocking in services like the App Store, Apple Arcade, Music, iTunes Store, Books, and Podcasts.
EU’s Stand on Geo-Blocking Practices
The European Commission, the EU’s main regulatory authority, highlighted the presence of geo-blocking practices in some Apple services, which it considers a violation of European law. The Commission warned Apple that if it fails to comply, national regulators may take enforcement action to ensure adherence to EU regulations. Margrethe Vestager, the European Commissioner for Competition and Digital Economy, emphasized the importance of fair treatment for all consumers, stating, “We are stepping up the fight against geo-blocking. No company, large or small, should unfairly discriminate against customers based on their nationality, place of residence or place of establishment.”
One-Month Deadline for Compliance
Apple has been given a one-month deadline to commit to removing geo-blocking from its platforms. Should Apple fail to comply within this timeframe, the European Commission is expected to take further steps based on their findings. We’ll keep you updated on Apple’s response and any upcoming regulatory actions.
Past Actions Against Geo-Blocking
This is not the first time the EU has cracked down on geo-blocking practices, reminds NIX Solutions. Previously, video game company Valve, along with five publishers including Bandai Namco, Capcom, Focus Home, Koch Media, and ZeniMax, faced fines totaling €7.8 million for using geo-blocking in the European Economic Area. Valve, the owner of the Steam platform, attempted to appeal a €1.6 million portion of the fine to the European General Court but was unsuccessful.
This ongoing regulatory pressure underlines the EU’s commitment to ensuring equitable access to digital content across all member states. We’ll keep you updated as the situation develops.