Spain’s Comisión Nacional de los Mercados y la Competencia (CNMC) has extended its antitrust investigation into Apple’s App Store. Originally launched in July 2024, the probe now includes concerns over pricing practices that may limit competition among developers.
According to new evidence reviewed by the CNMC, Apple reportedly enforces a fixed pricing structure that developers must follow when offering apps on the App Store. This could violate European Union competition laws by potentially restricting how companies price their products across different markets.
How Apple’s Pricing Works
App developers currently select pricing tiers based on their target country. Apple then automatically adjusts pricing for other countries using its internal currency conversion and storefront logic. Developers have access to 800 default pricing points and can apply for 100 higher-tiered options that go up to $10,000.
Critics argue that this structure might prevent flexible competition by forcing developers into a preset model rather than allowing market-driven pricing strategies.
Apple’s Response
In a statement shared with media, Apple defended its system. “We designed the App Store to be a safe and trusted experience for users and a great business opportunity for developers in Spain and around the world,” the company stated. Apple also confirmed ongoing dialogue with the Spanish authorities to address the concerns raised.
Despite the expanded probe, the CNMC clarified that this move does not imply a final judgment against Apple. The full investigation is expected to continue for another year.
EU-Wide Pressure Mounts
Apple’s challenges in Spain are part of broader scrutiny across the European Union. Under the Digital Markets Act, Apple faces increased pressure to comply with fair competition standards, especially regarding its control over app distribution and fee structures.
Failure to meet these expectations could result in significant financial penalties, including fines up to 10% of Apple’s global turnover under Spain’s competition law.
As the case unfolds, it may set a precedent for how digital platforms handle pricing and fairness across international app marketplaces.
