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EU: Previously unknown probe into Apple emerges

By  |  May 27, 2013

Reports have surfaced that the Financial Times has gained access to a questionnaire sent by the European Commission to various competitors about Apple Inc.’s business practices. The questionnaire, sent to various wireless carriers, reportedly inquired about the company’s channel terms and alleged 4G restrictions on the iPhone 5. Rivals of the tech giant reportedly sent complaints to antitrust regulators concerning what they claim as disproportionate sales quotas imposed onto wireless carriers in order to encourage iPhone and iPad sales. The discovery of the questionnaire suggest the Commission has initiated a quiet investigation into the company; formal complaints against Apple have not been issued, however, nor has an official investigation been launched. The news comes just one week after reports emerged that the Federal Trade Commission has initiated another investigation into Apple rival Google, which is also under investigation from the European Commission.

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