Apple’s Secret Revealed: India’s Antitrust Body Orders Recall of Reports on Abuse of Dominant Position

India’s Competition Commission of India (CCI) has issued a rare order, requesting the return of reports on an investigation into Apple’s alleged abuse of its dominant position in the apps market. The move follows Apple’s complaint that its commercial secrets were disclosed to opponents, including Tinder-owner Match.

The CCI ordered the recall of the reports on August 7, citing the need to maintain confidentiality to prevent unauthorized disclosure. Apple was concerned about disclosures related to revenue of its India app store and figures on market share, according to a source with direct knowledge of the matter.

The investigation, which began in 2021, centers on Apple’s proprietary in-app purchase system, which charges developers up to 30% in fees. The CCI had been expected to rule on fines or changes to Apple’s business practices, but the recall of the reports will prolong the procedure, potentially by two to three months.

The CCI reports on Apple, one from 2022 and another from 2024, concluded that Apple engaged in abusive conduct and practices, and its payment policy adversely affects app developers, users, and other payment processors. Apple has denied wrongdoing, claiming it is a small player in India, where phones using Google’s Android system are dominant.

Apple’s domestic smartphone base has grown five times larger in the past few years, according to Counterpoint Research. The company faces antitrust heat globally, including a European Union investigation that could result in a hefty fine.

The recall of reports is a rare occurrence, and will require the redaction of confidential information, according to Indian lawyers familiar with the CCI process. The outcome of the investigation remains uncertain, but the delay may impact Apple’s business practices and fine, if imposed.