In a major crackdown on Big Tech, the European Union has fined Apple and Meta nearly $800 million for violating its new Digital Markets Act (DMA)—a sweeping law aimed at curbing the power of dominant digital platforms. The move marks the first enforcement action under the landmark competition law, signaling a more aggressive EU stance against U.S. tech giants.
The European Commission announced Wednesday that Apple will pay €500 million ($570 million), while Meta has been fined €200 million ($228 million). The penalties stem from breaches of user rights and anti-competitive business practices that regulators say limited consumer choice and undermined fair competition.
Meta Slams EU: “It’s a Multibillion-Dollar Tariff”
Meta’s Chief Global Affairs Officer Joel Kaplan didn’t hold back, accusing the EU of using regulatory enforcement to “handicap successful American businesses.” Kaplan argued the Commission’s demand to change its data privacy model effectively imposes a “multibillion-dollar tariff” on the company.
“This isn’t just about a fine. The Commission is forcing us to change our business model,” Kaplan said. “It’s an attempt to force an inferior product on users and penalize innovation.”
Meta came under fire for its “consent or pay” model, rolled out in late 2023. Under this model, European users were asked to either agree to extensive data tracking for personalized ads—or pay a subscription fee to use ad-free versions of Facebook and Instagram. Regulators say that this violated the DMA’s principles of fair user choice.
Apple in the Spotlight: Steering Violations
Meanwhile, Apple was found guilty of violating the DMA’s “steering” rules. These provisions require that app developers be allowed to inform users of cheaper alternatives outside of Apple’s App Store, and direct them to complete purchases there—without facing penalties or restrictions.
The EU found Apple’s policies blocked developers from fully communicating alternatives, depriving consumers of more affordable options. In a statement, Apple responded by saying the fine was “yet another example of the European Commission unfairly targeting American companies.” Apple has said it plans to appeal the decision.
Broader Trade Tensions with the U.S.
The timing of the penalties is politically sensitive. Former President Donald Trump, currently seeking re-election, has accused the EU of intentionally targeting American tech leaders. Just last month, Trump stated that “the EU was formed to screw the United States,” while announcing a new round of tariffs on EU imports—since postponed until July.
Peter Navarro, one of Trump’s senior advisors, echoed the sentiment in the Financial Times, accusing the EU of using “lawfare” against U.S. firms.
The EU insists the Digital Markets Act is not about targeting specific countries, but rather ensuring a level playing field in the digital economy. Under the law, repeat violations can trigger fines of up to 20% of global annual revenue—a serious threat even for giants like Apple and Meta.
With Apple earning $391 billion and Meta raking in $164 billion last year, the current fines represent a fraction of the maximum penalties regulators could enforce. Still, the enforcement sends a strong signal to Silicon Valley: adapt to Europe’s new rules—or pay the price.
Tags: Apple fine EU, Meta Digital Markets Act, EU vs Big Tech, Apple steering violation, Meta consent or pay, Trump tariffs EU, European Commission tech fines, DMA enforcement news