One month after a Dutch regulator levied another fine against Apple for its failure to provide alternative payment methods on its dating apps, the tech giant is still trying to settle the dispute, Reuters reported Monday (March 21).
Apple has sent new proposals to resolve the long-running clash over the company’s failure to make it possible for dating app developers to use other payment methods in the Netherlands.
The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) did not disclose the proposed remedy Apple has proposed, but noted that it imposed a 5 million euro ($5.5 million) fine on the company. That’s the ninth such weekly penalty Apple has received since January.
Read more: Dutch Antitrust Regulator Fines Apple Another $5M Over Payment Methods
The latest fine brings the total penalties levied against Apple by the ACM to more than $33 million. The fines stem from charges by the ACM that Apple has abused its dominant market position by not letting software applications in the Netherlands use any other payment modes.
Apple has maintained it has already complied with the ACM’s order, while the watchdog says it has not seen any change in Apple’s position.
The company had a Jan. 15 deadline to comply with the ACM. It missed that deadline and has been fined every week since then.
Apple contends it has followed the ACM’s wishes by allowing dating app makers to submit a new apps with alternative payment methods enabled.
The company also said it still intends to charge a 27% commission on any in-app payments it doesn’t process. That’s down from the previous 30% fee.
ACM has said Apple’s new payment terms for data apps are “unreasonable and create an additional barrier,” noting Apple “still does not meet the requirements.”
Read also: Apple Fined Again in Dutch Dating App Case
Dutch law allows the ACM to fine Apple up to 50 million euros ($57 million).
We’re always on the lookout for opportunities to partner with innovators and disruptors.
Learn More