EU orders Apple to remove geo-blocking
The European Union has demanded that Apple remove geo-blocking from its services, including the App Store, Apple Arcade, Music, iTunes Store, Books, and Podcasts. The EU has called on Apple to rectify these restrictions within one month.
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The Consumer Protection Cooperation Network, which brings together the European Commission and member state authorities, announced that Apple Media Services has been informed regarding its prohibited geo-blocking practices in Europe.
The statement pointed out that various limitations were identified in Apple services that unlawfully discriminate against European consumers based on their place of residence regarding online access, payment methods, and downloads. It was noted that Apple has been requested to bring its App Store, Apple Arcade, Music, iTunes Store, Books, and Podcast applications into compliance with the EU's anti-geo-blocking rules.
The statement reminded that under EU rules, customers cannot be subjected to unfair discrimination based on nationality, residence, or place of establishment when they wish to purchase goods and services from a different member state. It was further noted that Apple must submit its commitments to rectify the identified problematic geo-blocking practices within one month, or otherwise face potential sanctions.