Apple Loses Key Battle in Major Dutch App Store Antitrust Lawsuit

Apple has lost a critical legal challenge in the Netherlands. The EU’s top court ruled against the tech giant today. This allows a massive class-action lawsuit over App Store fees to proceed. The case could cost Apple hundreds of millions of euros.

The Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) made the decisive ruling. It confirms Dutch courts have jurisdiction. This paves the way for a trial in Amsterdam next year. According to Reuters, the lawsuit represents 14 million Dutch iPhone and iPad users.

Court Rejects Apple’s Jurisdiction Argument, Clears Path for Trial

Apple had fought to move the case to Ireland. It argued its EU App Store operations are based there. The company warned of legal fragmentation across Europe. The CJEU firmly rejected this position.

The court found the Dutch store targets Dutch consumers. It offers apps for sale to people with Dutch Apple IDs. Therefore, Dutch courts can hear the claims. The District Court of Amsterdam will now handle the substantive case.

Potential damages are staggering. Estimates reach 637 million euros. The lawsuit alleges Apple abused its dominant position. It claims the 30% commission unfairly inflated app prices for consumers. Apple disagrees with the ruling and plans a vigorous defense.

Broader Implications for Apple’s European Legal Battles

This civil case is separate from other Dutch antitrust actions. The country’s regulator previously fined Apple over dating app rules. This new lawsuit is a consumer-led collective action. Its success could inspire similar cases across the EU.

The decision sets a significant precedent. It empowers consumer groups to sue in their home courts. This could open Apple to multiple national lawsuits over the same practices. The final hearing in Amsterdam is expected in early 2026.

For European consumers, the case is about fair pricing. The outcome may influence how all digital marketplaces operate. It adds pressure on Apple amid the EU’s sweeping Digital Markets Act. The company faces a shifting regulatory landscape.

This Dutch App Store lawsuit represents a major financial and legal threat to Apple in Europe. The company’s loss on jurisdiction signals tougher battles ahead on its core business model.

A quick knowledge drop for you

What is this Dutch Apple lawsuit about?

It is a class-action case alleging Apple’s App Store fees are anti-competitive. Consumer groups claim the 30% commission led to unfairly high prices for Dutch iPhone and iPad users.

How much could Apple potentially have to pay?

Estimates suggest damages could total up to 637 million euros. This would compensate an estimated 14 million Dutch consumers represented in the case.

When will the case go to trial?

The substantive trial is expected at the District Court of Amsterdam toward the end of the first quarter of 2026. Apple will present its defense against the claims at that time.

Is this related to other Apple antitrust cases in Europe?

It is separate but adds to Apple’s legal challenges. The EU’s Digital Markets Act and a previous Dutch dating app case are different regulatory actions targeting similar App Store policies.

Why did the EU court say the Netherlands has jurisdiction?

The court ruled the App Store in question was designed for the Dutch market. It targets consumers with Dutch Apple IDs, giving local courts the authority to hear the consumer damage claims.