Apple is facing a £2 billion ($2.7 billion) lawsuit in London over its app tracking rules. The case accuses the technology giant of unfairly restricting third-party developers.
Lawyers filed the lawsuit at London’s Competition Appeal Tribunal on Thursday. The legal action follows years of regulatory scrutiny surrounding Apple’s App Tracking Transparency feature.
Developers Challenge Apple’s Tracking Policy
Apple introduced App Tracking Transparency in 2021 to give users greater control over tracking permissions. The feature allows users to decide whether apps can track activity across other companies’ apps and websites.
However, lawyers representing app developers argue that Apple applies stricter requirements to third-party developers. They claim the policy gives Apple’s advertising services an unfair competitive advantage.
Ann Pope, who previously served as a senior Competition and Markets Authority official, leads the lawsuit. She said Apple’s policy caused significant harm to businesses relying on the company’s platform.
The legal team wants compensation for losses suffered by British businesses. Moreover, it seeks fairer rules for companies operating through Apple’s ecosystem.
Apple Defends App Tracking Transparency Rules
Apple rejected the allegations and defended its tracking framework. The company said the feature gives users a simple way to control app tracking permissions.
Apple also maintained that it applies exactly the same requirements to its own services. Meanwhile, regulators across Europe continue examining the company’s approach to app tracking.
Germany recently reached an agreement with Apple over changes to app developers’ use of personal data. German authorities had accused Apple of abusing its market power following industry complaints.
Furthermore, regulators in France, Italy, Poland and other European countries have examined the framework. The latest lawsuit could therefore increase pressure on Apple over its advertising and privacy policies.
