Apple has responded to the United States antitrust lawsuit by denying that it is a “monopolist” and asserting that it faces strong competition in the technology sector. In a letter to a New Jersey federal judge, Apple’s lawyers disputed the claims made by the U.S. government, stating that the company made independent decisions regarding third-party access to its platform and the design choices that supposedly bind users to iPhones. The Justice Department’s lawsuit accuses Apple of having a monopoly in the smartphone market, which enables the company to restrict features and functions of digital wallets and payments, as well as impede competition with its App Store rules. One such rule is the “Apple Tax,” a 30% fee that makes it economically unfeasible for cryptocurrency apps to offer in-app purchases. Apple defended its actions by stating that it offers users a curated and secure experience compared to the more open platforms of its competitors. The company also argued that the government failed to accurately define the relevant market or establish that Apple has monopoly power. It further asserted that the alleged anticompetitive conduct occurred in separate markets, such as the policies surrounding digital wallets. Apple dismissed the claim that it has a smartphone market monopoly by pointing out its stiff competition from Google and Samsung, which lead in mobile operating systems and global smartphone sales, respectively. The company challenged the government’s assertion that users are forced into Apple’s limitations by stating that dissatisfied individuals have the option to switch to competitor platforms without those restrictions. Apple expressed concerns that the lawsuit could set a dangerous precedent and give the government excessive control over technology design.
Apple refutes allegations of monopoly, cites 'intense competition' during legal proceedings.