EU Imposes $7.5 Billion Fine on Apple and Meta, US Threatens Retaliation

The European Union has imposed a total fine of 7 billion euros (approximately $7.5 billion) on tech giants Apple and Meta for violating the Digital Markets Act (DMA) competition rules. Meta was fined 2 billion euros for its 'pay or agree' system for personal data use, while Apple was fined a higher amount for violating related market rules.

This decision comes after US President Trump warned the EU not to 'target' American tech companies. Trump previously described EU fines on US companies as a 'backdoor tax'. Analysts believe that this fine could further escalate the increasingly tense trade relations between the US and EU, with the Trump administration threatening to impose retaliatory tariffs on European goods.

Despite the harsh rhetoric, the fine amount is significantly lower than the maximum allowed, indicating a softer stance from the EU. Apple has not indicated whether it will appeal the decision, suggesting that negotiations may be underway, and the conflict may be on the verge of a turning point.

Sources: 9to5mac