The US sues Apple for monopoly in the smartphone market

The United States Department of Justice sued Apple on Thursday, the first major antitrust initiative by the Joe Biden government against the iPhone maker, alleging that it monopolizes smartphone markets, with an impact on competition and innovation.

Apple thus joins a list of large technology companies sued by US regulators, including Alphabet's Google, Meta Platforms and Amazon.com, throughout the terms of both former President Donald Trump and Biden.

“Consumers should not have to pay higher prices because companies violate antitrust laws,” Attorney General Merrick Garland said in a statement. “If left unchallenged, Apple will only continue to strengthen its smartphone monopoly.”

The Californian company said in a statement that the lawsuit is “factually and legally incorrect” and will vigorously defend itself against it.

“This lawsuit threatens who we are and the principles that distinguish Apple products in fiercely competitive markets. If successful, it would hinder our ability to create the kind of technology people expect from Apple, where hardware, software and services are integrated.” they cross,” he said.

The Justice Department alleges that Apple uses its market power to extract more money from consumers, developers, content creators, artists, publishers, small businesses and merchants.

The civil suit accuses Apple of an illegal monopoly in the smartphone sector, which it maintains by imposing contractual restrictions on developers and denying them essential access.

Apple has already been the subject of antitrust investigations and orders in Europe, Japan and Korea, as well as lawsuits from rival companies such as Epic Games.

Connect with the Voice of America! Subscribe to our channels Youtube, WhatsApp and to newsletter. Turn on notifications and follow us on Facebook, x and instagram.