The EU General Court on July 8, 2026, upheld the European Commission’s designation of Apple as a “gatekeeper” under the Digital Markets Act and rejected Apple’s challenge to strict regulations governing its App Store and iOS platform.

The Luxembourg-based court dismissed all actions brought by Apple, confirming the gatekeeper designation for the App Store and iOS. The court separately ruled Apple’s challenge to the classification of iMessage as a core platform service inadmissible, meaning Apple cannot challenge that determination at this stage.

What the Ruling Means

The Digital Markets Act imposes wide-ranging obligations on major technology companies designated as gatekeepers. Companies face fines of up to 10% of global annual revenue for non-compliance. Apple, already struggling with DMA compliance, now has no court path forward until the European Commission takes specific enforcement action.

The decision sets a procedural precedent: gatekeepers cannot challenge DMA obligations in the abstract. They must wait until the Commission issues specific enforcement decisions, then mount their defense.

Apple’s Interoperability Problem

As of March 22, 2026, Apple had received 56 formal interoperability requests under DMA Article 6(7). Not one had resulted in a working solution, according to EU records. The company continues to face pressure to open up iMessage, allow third-party app stores, and provide deeper integration with competing services.

What Happens Next

Apple can still appeal to the Court of Justice of the European Union, Europe’s highest court, on matters of law. However, the company’s options for slowing DMA compliance have narrowed significantly. European regulators are now focused on enforcing the act’s provisions against all designated gatekeepers.

Apple’s loss in Luxembourg closes one door. The company’s real challenge now is complying with obligations it continues to resist in practice.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)

Can Apple appeal this court decision?

Yes, Apple can appeal to the Court of Justice of the European Union on matters of law only. The appeal would focus on legal interpretations, not factual disputes.