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Open App Markets Act (OAMA)
The bipartisan Open App Markets Act (OAMA) would promote competition and reduce gatekeeper power in the United States app economy, increase choice, improve quality, and reduce costs for consumers.
OAMA was introduced in the House and Senate in 2022, spearheaded by steadfast leadership from Sens. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Reps. Hank Johnson (D-GA) and Ken Buck (R-CO).
Apple ramped up their lobbying spend in D.C., spending millions in 2022 alone to prevent the legislation’s success.
Spotify continues to work with lawmakers to push back on Apple’s efforts and make the case clear for consumers—we’re optimistic lawmakers will understand the benefits they can bring to bear.
US DOJ Investigation
In March 2024, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced a far-reaching federal lawsuit against Apple that says the company violated antitrust law by abusing its market dominance. The government’s decision to pursue legal action against Apple makes clear that Apple abuses its position in the market and that its anticompetitive practices harm consumers, developers, and creators.
Three Things To Know:
Why the DOJ’s lawsuit matters
The complaint represents a big step in the fight for a fair and competitive internet. It’s an important acknowledgment that Apple has denied U.S. consumers choice and lower cost options on several fronts for years.
What’s next in the U.S.
In a word, Congress. A swift resolution is critical, yet most expect that the legal process for the lawsuit will take time, likely several years. Apple was quick to say it would throw all its considerable resources at defending itself — sure to slow down the legal progress. Meanwhile, Apple won’t change its practices unless it is forced to. Absent stronger laws in the U.S. that rein in Apple’s abuse of its monopoly power, consumers and businesses will continue to lose out in the interim. It’s time for Congress to act.
FAQs
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Why is a law needed in the U.S.?
The country’s primary antitrust law dates back to 1890. The world has changed since then. Without targeted and enforceable new competition laws, Apple will continue to keep millions of consumers in the dark and choke competition for thousands of US developers.
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Would consumers benefit?
Nearly every consumer now owns a smartphone, and many use them as their primary means of accessing services on the internet. This means everyone is impacted. Consumers are losing out on choices, and Apple sees that they’re kept in the dark about competitive apps or better services.
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Why hasn’t the U.S. passed legislation yet?
This is an issue that has bipartisan support, and we are confident there is growing momentum in Congress for the need to stop the anticompetitive behavior that is harming consumers every day. Passing a bill is the best and fastest path to a fair digital future.
