Apple has suffered another setback in its ongoing legal dispute with the European Union. The EU General Court dismissed the company’s attempt to remove its App Store from the Digital Markets Act (DMA), reinforcing the bloc’s efforts to regulate major technology platforms.
The ruling follows years of debate over how the DMA should apply to Apple’s services. The law targets large digital platforms that act as key gateways between businesses and consumers.
Apple accepted its status as a “gatekeeper” in 2023. However, the company later argued that it operates five separate App Stores rather than one unified marketplace. Those stores serve the iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, and Apple Watch.
Judges Reject Apple’s Argument
The Luxembourg-based court ruled that Apple’s position did not change the purpose of the App Store. Judges said every version connects developers with users and distributes software, regardless of the device. Therefore, they concluded the App Store should remain a single regulated service under the DMA.
Apple strongly disagreed with the decision. The company said the DMA exceeds reasonable legal limits and could weaken the privacy and security protections it has developed over many years. Apple also pledged to continue defending its approach for European customers.
iMessage Decision Offers Limited Relief
The court also reviewed Apple’s challenge involving iMessage. European regulators classify the messaging platform as a number-independent interpersonal communications service. However, judges explained that this classification alone does not automatically place iMessage under the DMA.
Importantly, the court noted that iMessage has not been designated as an “important gateway.” As a result, Apple’s objection was considered inadmissible because the service is not currently regulated as a DMA gatekeeper.
Legal Battle Is Not Over
Although Apple lost this round, the dispute may continue. The company can still appeal the App Store ruling to the Court of Justice of the European Union, the EU’s highest judicial authority.
The latest judgment highlights Europe’s determination to enforce the Digital Markets Act. Meanwhile, it also shows Apple’s continued effort to challenge regulations that it believes could affect innovation, privacy, and the security of its ecosystem. As appeals move forward, the outcome could shape how major technology companies operate across the European Union for years to come.
