Apple has caught a short break in its ongoing legal fight with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). The federal court paused the DOJ’s antitrust case after the U.S. government shutdown began on October 1, 2025.
The shutdown forced thousands of federal employees, including DOJ attorneys, to stop working. Since the department could not continue the case, it asked the U.S. District Court in New Jersey to suspend all legal proceedings. The court granted the request, allowing a pause until government operations resume.
Temporary Relief for Apple
Apple agreed to the pause, effectively giving itself a short window of relief from one of its biggest legal challenges. During this time, all motions, filings, and deadlines are suspended. Once Congress restores funding, the DOJ will ask the court to restart the case and resume the discovery process.
This pause doesn’t mean the case is over—it simply delays it. For now, Apple can redirect its attention to other priorities while the government deals with the shutdown.
How Long Will the Pause Last?
The length of the delay depends on how quickly lawmakers reach a funding deal. Past government shutdowns have lasted anywhere from a few days to several weeks. The uncertainty leaves both Apple and the DOJ waiting.
When the government reopens, the Justice Department is expected to pick up where it left off, continuing its push against Apple’s alleged anticompetitive practices. The case focuses on Apple’s control over its App Store and its ecosystem, which critics argue limits competition.
A Brief Breather
While the shutdown has disrupted many industries, Apple benefits slightly from the situation. The pause gives the company breathing space and time to prepare for what lies ahead. Once the legal process resumes, Apple will again face intense scrutiny from regulators determined to challenge its business model.
