Meta and Apple are reportedly in advanced discussions with the EU to settle cases under the Digital Markets Act (DMA). The EU has previously fined Apple €500 million for preventing app developers from directing users to cheaper options outside the App Store. Meta was fined €200 million for its 'pay or consent' model, which requires users to pay for ad-free access to Facebook and Instagram or consent to targeted advertising.
The European Commission stated that Meta's model did not provide users with a genuine choice to opt for a service that uses less of their personal data. Meta's Marketplace was also reviewed, with the Commission finding it no longer meets the threshold to be considered a major gateway for business users. Both companies have criticised the EU's actions, with Apple stating it was being unfairly targeted and Meta accusing the EU of favouring Chinese and European companies.
