Apple Accuses India Antitrust Probe of 'Copy-Pasting'

Apple has accused Indian antitrust investigators of "copy-pasting" arguments from its competitors in a scathing submission seeking to quash findings that it breached competition laws. The company claims the Competition Commission of India (CCI) investigators failed to conduct an independent analysis when concluding Apple engaged in abusive conduct regarding its iOS app platform and payment system.

In its June 25 submission, Apple argued it is a "minuscule player" in India's smartphone market with less than a 6% share. The tech giant warned that mandated changes to its App Store could disrupt its integrated business model, potentially creating regulatory uncertainty and deterring investment in India's digital economy.

Apple's submission included detailed tables to support its "copy-pasting" allegations, stating that the Director General "made no effort whatsoever to independently verify or critically assess" statements from opponents like Match, PhonePe, and Paytm. The company also noted the CCI report replicated graphics from an EU ruling, despite different market conditions in India.

The CCI investigators have privately issued a report in 2024 stating Apple engaged in "abusive conduct." Apple has denied these allegations and argues officials failed to grant it opportunities to record statements or provide oral evidence during the probe. A hearing with all parties is scheduled for July 21.

As Apple diversifies its manufacturing beyond China, India is a critical market, expected to produce 26% of the world's iPhones by 2026. The company highlighted its unblemished record and $51 billion in iPhone exports from India over the past five years as mitigating factors if penalties are considered.