It is positive that the EC is following up the DMA. The fines are derisory when put in the context of Apple and Metas’ revenues and profits. But to be frank, the fines are not the main story.
When it comes to Meta, we have long argued that the surveillance-based business models should be banned. There is no reason why any company should be allowed to analyze its users and sell access to them based on that information. This gets particularly ugly when it comes to political marketing. Why any company is allowed to operate in a way that would horrify anyone if done by their government, continues to puzzle us.
We are glad to see the EC continues to push Apple to allow distribution from other sources, as well as payments outside of Apple’s walled gardens.
Worse is the end of the investigation into iOS browser choice screens.
We are disappointed that the commission will not follow up on having a fully working choice screen. The idea that the choice screen is shown when clicking the Safari icon makes the choice screen less effective. Our clear stance is that the choice screen should be shown when setting up or updating the OS for a better user experience.
We are also disappointed that Apple is allowed to continue to hide browsers, like Vivaldi, from the choice screen in major countries, often prioritizing non-consumer browsers rather than general-purpose, cross-OS competitors. It is unfortunate for users that the only full-fledged European browser alternative is not shown as an option in many European countries.
Lastly, we have noted Meta’s response today. They want to make this about the US vs. Europe, while in reality, this is about Big Tech vs the world. They try to polarize the debate and take focus away from what’s really important.
Big Tech should not be building profiles on users and selling access to them to the highest bidder.
— Jon von Tetzchner,
Vivaldi’s CEO and Co-founder
