Apple Faces Indian Antitrust Showdown

A crucial hearing for Apple's antitrust case in India is scheduled for May 21. The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has accused Apple of leveraging its dominant position through the App Store, specifically regarding its in-app purchase policies. Apple has resisted submitting financial data requested by the CCI, arguing that Android dominates the Indian smartphone market and that iPhones hold a smaller market share.

Despite Apple's arguments, its market share in India has been growing, reaching nine percent in 2025. The CCI has indicated that Apple has had ample opportunity to present its case but has not provided the required financial information, which is essential for calculating potential penalties. These penalties could potentially reach as high as $38 billion.

This situation is not the first instance of Apple encountering regulatory friction in India; it previously refused to pre-install a government-mandated app. However, the government appears less willing to compromise on this antitrust investigation. The CCI has granted Apple an additional two weeks to submit any responses before the upcoming hearing.