India’s Antitrust Watchdog Issues Final Warning to Apple Over Investigation Delays
The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has issued a final warning to Apple, expressing frustration over the company’s repeated delays in responding to an ongoing antitrust investigation. This development marks a significant escalation in the regulatory scrutiny faced by the tech giant in one of its key emerging markets.
Background of the Investigation
The CCI initiated an antitrust probe into Apple in 2021, focusing on allegations that the company abused its dominant position in the iOS app market. Central to the investigation is Apple’s mandatory in-app purchase system, which imposes a commission of up to 30% on developers. Critics argue that this practice stifles competition and innovation by forcing developers to adhere to Apple’s payment policies.
In 2024, the CCI’s investigative arm concluded that Apple had engaged in abusive conduct, adversely affecting app developers, users, and other payment processors. The findings suggested that Apple’s App Store operates as an unavoidable trading partner for app developers, compelling them to comply with its terms without alternatives.
Apple’s Response and Legal Maneuvers
Following the CCI’s findings, Apple was asked to submit objections and provide financial details necessary for assessing potential penalties. However, the company has consistently sought extensions, delaying the proceedings. In November 2025, Apple challenged India’s updated competition law, which allows the CCI to calculate fines based on a company’s global turnover. Apple expressed concerns that this methodology could result in penalties up to $38 billion. The company filed a case in the Delhi High Court to contest this approach, with a hearing scheduled for January 27, 2026.
Despite the ongoing legal challenge, Apple privately requested the CCI to pause the entire antitrust case until the court resolves the penalty rules dispute. The CCI rejected this request, emphasizing that such delays undermine procedural discipline and impede the timely conclusion of proceedings. The watchdog has now given Apple a final warning, stating that it will proceed with the case unilaterally if no response is received by the specified deadline.
Implications for Apple and the Broader Tech Industry
This standoff between Apple and the CCI underscores the increasing regulatory pressures faced by major tech companies worldwide. India, with its rapidly growing digital economy, has become a focal point for such scrutiny. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how antitrust laws are applied to global tech giants operating in the country.
For Apple, the stakes are high. Beyond potential financial penalties, the company risks reputational damage and may be compelled to alter its business practices in India. This could include revising its in-app purchase policies or reducing commission rates to appease regulators and foster a more competitive app ecosystem.
Moreover, this case highlights the broader debate over the power dynamics between platform owners and app developers. As digital platforms become increasingly integral to the global economy, ensuring fair competition and preventing monopolistic practices remain paramount concerns for regulators worldwide.
Conclusion
The CCI’s final warning to Apple signifies a critical juncture in the ongoing antitrust investigation. As the January 27 court hearing approaches, all eyes will be on how Apple navigates this complex legal landscape. The outcome will not only impact Apple’s operations in India but could also influence global discussions on antitrust regulations in the tech industry.
