Initial offenses could cost the company 10 percent of its global revenue, while subsequent violations are double.
For example, Apple would be looking at a fine of over $35 billion.
To put that into perspective, that is equivalent to half of Apple’s iPhone sales evaporating instantly.
There are five probes in total two for Google, two for Apple, and one for Meta.
Additionally, Amazon and Microsoft received retention orders, but the Commission stopped short of investigating them.
It seems that Bytedance is the only gatekeeper that is not under a microscope.
The steering, self-preferencing, and user choice probes are straightforward and mundane.
What is interesting is the EC’s interest in Facebook’s ad-free subscription offering.
Under the model, users can pay a fee todisableadvertising on Facebook and Instagram.
“And this consent must be free!”
Breton appears to view the subscription as a “pay or consent” scam.
It will be interesting to watch how this one plays out.
The EC expects its investigations to conclude within 12 months.
