Mercer Times

Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin, in collaboration with the Justice Department and 15 other states, has filed an antitrust lawsuit against Apple, alleging monopolistic practices in the smartphone market. Platkin stated, “Apple’s dominance in the smartphone market is not an accident. Instead, Apple has gone to great lengths to create a monopoly that affected not only the smartphone industry, but also the choice of apps, payment systems, smartwatches, and more.”

The complaint filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey outlines how Apple's actions have hindered innovation and competition, ultimately leading to consumers paying more for an inferior product. Platkin emphasized that the lawsuit aims to put a stop to Apple's monopolistic behavior and stand up for consumers across the country.

The lawsuit alleges that Apple's exclusionary and anticompetitive practices violate the Sherman Act and New Jersey law. It highlights how Apple imposes restrictions on developers seeking to create apps for the Apple App Store, taking a significant percentage of their revenue and controlling access to essential APIs.

Furthermore, the complaint accuses Apple of selectively compromising privacy and security interests to maintain its financial advantage. Platkin noted that Apple's actions extend beyond smartphones, affecting instant messaging, payment services, and smartwatches, thus stifling future innovations.

In response to Apple's alleged actions, the lawsuit seeks substantial injunctive relief, including structural changes to Apple's business, and reimbursement for the costs incurred in bringing the legal action. Alongside New Jersey, other states participating in the lawsuit include Arizona, California, Connecticut, and several others.

Representatives from the New Jersey Division of Law's Affirmative Civil Enforcement Practice Group are spearheading the state's involvement in the case under the supervision of Director Michael T.G. Long and Assistant Attorney General Brian F. McDonough.