A U.S. federal judge ruled on Monday that Apple must face an antitrust lawsuit filed by the Department of Justice (DOJ), according to reports. The court rejected Apple’s motion to dismiss the case.
DOJ Claims Apple Blocks Competition
The DOJ, along with multiple U.S. states and Washington, D.C., accused Apple of using “restrictive policies” to keep control over the smartphone market. According to the lawsuit, Apple’s actions “stifle competition” and “discourage users from switching to rival devices.”
The DOJ also claimed Apple limits third-party smartwatches, messaging apps, and digital wallets, making it harder for consumers to leave the Apple ecosystem. Officials argue that these barriers “harm broader competition” and lock users in.
Apple Denies the Allegations
In response, an Apple spokesperson said the lawsuit is “wrong on the facts and the law.” The company insisted that its policies aim to protect “user experience and security.” Apple confirmed it would “continue to fight the case vigorously in court.”
Tech Giants Under Scrutiny
Meanwhile, this lawsuit is part of a broader U.S. crackdown on Big Tech. Other companies like Meta, Amazon, and Alphabet also face legal action over alleged monopolistic behavior. Regulators say they want to create a “more competitive and fair” digital marketplace.
