The US Department of Justice (DOJ) scored an initial victory in its ongoing antitrust lawsuit against Apple, with a federal judge denying Apple’s motion to dismiss the case. The lawsuit alleges that Apple intentionally monopolizes the smartphone and performance smartphone market through anticompetitive practices. Apple sought dismissal in August 2024, arguing that the DOJ failed to prove monopolization or anticompetitive conduct, dismissing claims of deliberate iPhone degradation to hinder competitors. While the case remains in early stages and no definitive rulings on the claims have been made, the judge stated that the government’s allegations are sufficient to proceed. Apple has publicly stated its intention to vigorously defend itself in court. This development follows a similar antitrust proceedings against Meta, where initial claims were dismissed before being allowed to continue. The DOJ contends Apple employs contractual restrictions to inflate prices and limit competition from alternative apps and accessories, thereby monopolizing the market.
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