The European Union has launched an investigation into tech giants Apple, Alphabet, and Meta under the new Digital Markets Act legislation. The probes focus on various issues such as anti-steering rules, self-preferencing, and compliance with DMA obligations. Apple has already been fined 1.8 billion euros for restricting app developers from informing users about alternative subscription services. The investigation also looks into whether Apple is allowing users to easily uninstall apps and change default settings on iOS. Apple maintains that it is in compliance with the DMA and will continue to engage with the European Commission.

Alphabet is also under scrutiny for potentially self-preferencing Google search results over rival offerings. The company has made significant changes to its services in Europe to comply with the DMA and will defend its approach in the coming months. Meta is being investigated for its pay and consent model, with concerns that the binary choice imposed by the model may not provide a real alternative for users who do not consent. The EU is looking for free alternative options to be offered by Meta for its services that are less personalized.

The commission intends to conclude its probes within 12 months, with the possibility of fines of up to 10% of the tech firms' total worldwide turnover for infringements of the DMA. Amazon is also under scrutiny for potentially preferencing its own brand products on its e-commerce platform over rivals. The EU is determined to ensure that tech giants comply with the DMA and will use all available tools to address any concerns.