EU hits Apple with music streaming charge in boost for Spotify

BRUSSELS: EU regulators accused Apple on Friday of distorting competition in the music streaming market, siding with Spotify in a case that could lead to a hefty fine and changes in the iPhone maker’s lucrative business practices.

The preliminary findings start a process that will allow Apple and Spotify to respond. If the case is pursued, EU regulators could demand concessions, and even impose a fine of up to 10% of Apple’s global turnover, or as much as $27 billion, although they rarely levy the maximum penalty.

Apple found itself in the European Commission’s crosshairs after Spotify complained two years ago that the U.S. tech giant unfairly restricted rivals to its own music streaming service Apple Music on iPhones.