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Apple Turns to Samsung for Evidence in US Antitrust Showdown

By  |  April 13, 2026

Apple is turning to one of its biggest rivals, Samsung Electronics, for assistance in its ongoing antitrust legal fight in the United States, as the company attempts to strengthen its defense against allegations of monopolistic practices.

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    The Cupertino-based technology giant has formally requested access to internal Samsung documents located in South Korea, according to Times of India. The move comes as part of Apple’s broader strategy to gather evidence during the discovery phase of its legal dispute with the US Department of Justice and several states.

    In a recent court filing, asked the court to issue a legal request under the Hague Evidence Convention. This international framework allows courts to obtain evidence from foreign jurisdictions in civil and commercial cases.

    Apple stated in its filing, “Apple Inc. (“Apple”) respectfully requests that this Court issue the accompanying Letter of Request under the Hague Convention of 18 March 1970 on the Taking of Evidence Abroad in Civil or Commercial Matters (“Hague Evidence Convention”) to Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. (“Samsung Electronics”) in the Republic of Korea. Apple’s Letter of Request seeks internal business reports, market analyses, and data regarding Samsung’s smartphone, smartwatch, and app store businesses. Apple has already subpoenaed Samsung Electronics’ domestic subsidiary, Samsung Electronics America, Inc. (“Samsung America” or “SEA”), but Samsung America has objected to all of Apple’s document requests on the basis that it will not produce documents purportedly in the sole possession, custody, or control of Samsung Electronics.”

    Related: Apple Seeks International Help to Obtain Samsung Evidence in DOJ Antitrust Case

    The request follows resistance from Samsung’s US-based subsidiary, which declined to hand over the requested materials, arguing that the documents are controlled exclusively by its South Korean parent company.

    According to The Times of India, Apple is seeking detailed insights into Samsung’s operations across smartphones, smartwatches, and app distribution platforms. The company believes that such data could provide a clearer picture of competitive dynamics in these markets, potentially supporting its defense.

    The antitrust case itself dates back to March 2024, when the US Department of Justice, along with multiple states, filed a lawsuit accusing Apple of restricting competition. Regulators have argued that Apple’s App Store rules, developer agreements, and control over certain iPhone features create barriers for rival companies.

    After Apple’s attempt to have the case dismissed was unsuccessful, the proceedings advanced to the discovery phase, where both sides are required to exchange relevant evidence. Per the Times of India, Apple’s latest move signals its intent to leverage competitor data to challenge claims about its market dominance.

    Source: The Times of India