US: Apple, antitrust monitor learning to coexist

After months of tension, Apple’s court-appointed antitrust monitor reported an improved relationship with the technology giant and progress in antitrust compliance efforts.

According to reports, Michael Bromwich said his once “contentious” relationship with Apple has vastly improved, detailing the improvements in a report filed Monday to US District Judge Denise Cote. Judge Cote ordered Apple to work with Bromwich following a decision that found Apple had conspired to manipulate eBooks prices.

Following the monitor’s appointment, Apple had fought Bromwich’s position and requested that he be removed from his post on claims that he was overstepping his boundaries at the company.

In his filing, Bromwich said that since his appointment last October there had been “unexpected delays” in efforts to cooperate with Apple; the last six weeks, however, has shown vast improvements, with their relationship “more focused on achieving the goal of enhancing Apple’s Antitrust Compliance Program.”

While the filing appears to be good news for the company, Apple still faces $840 million in claims filed for the eBooks price-fixing collusion. A lawsuit is set for trial later this year.

Full Content: Bloomberg

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