United States of America: Announced DOJ and 16 state attorneys general lawsuit against Apple over alleged monopolisation of smartphone markets

On 21 March 2024, the US Department of Justice (DOJ), joined by 16 state and district attorneys general, filed a lawsuit against Apple for alleged monopolisation or attempted monopolisation of smartphone markets in violation of Section 2 of the Sherman Act. The complaint alleges that Apple illegally maintains such a monopoly by selectively imposing contractual restrictions on developers. Further, the lawsuit states that Apple undermines access points, such as apps, products, or services, that could lessen the dependence of users on the iPhone, increase interoperability and decrease costs for both consumers and developers. In particular, the lawsuit claims that Apple engages in anti-competitive behaviour by blocking innovative apps that would facilitate the switch between different smartphone platforms, blocking mobile cloud streaming services and the exclusion of cross-platform messaging apps. Additionally, the lawsuit alleges that Apple diminished the functionality of non-Apple smartwatches and limited the offering of cross-platform third-party digital wallets. The lawsuit seeks relief to restore competition to these markets on behalf of the American public.