Apple to Avoid EU Fine Over Browser Choice Screen [Report]

Apple will likely avoid a possible fine and an EU order over its screen to select a default browser on iPhone, according to a new report from Reuters. The publication cites sources with direct knowledge of the matter who say the company's recent changes have brought it in line with the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA), prompting the European Commission to scale back a year-long investigation.

Here's a breakdown of the key details...

The European Commission kicked off its probe in March 2024, examining whether Apple's browser selection interface on iPhones restricted users from easily switching to rival browsers or search engines. The DMA, a sweeping regulation aimed at Big Tech, lays out rules to promote competition and user choice across digital platforms, including browsers and app stores. Violations can carry penalties of up to 10% of a company's global yearly revenue, a hefty sum for Apple.


Insiders report the Commission plans to wrap up this investigation as early as next week, indicating Apple's adjustments met regulatory demands. While the exact changes remain unspecified, they likely involve refinements to the iPhone's browser selection process, a core focus of the DMA. The EU's competition office declined to provide a statement when contacted by Reuters.

This outcome coincides with strained EU-U.S. relations, as President Donald Trump has warned of tariffs against nations fining U.S. firms. At the same time, the Commission is preparing to issue fines and compliance orders to Apple and Meta Platforms for other DMA breaches. Apple faces a separate case about whether it blocks app developers from freely pointing users to external offers outside the App Store. Meta's issue ties to its no-ads subscription service, rolled out in Europe in November 2023, which regulators say needs a free option.

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