Italy’s Regulatory Shake‑Up: Apple and Samsung Hit With Record Fines
Apple and Samsung just found themselves on the wrong side of the Italian competition authority. The watchdog slapped a €10 million fine on Samsung and a €5 million fine on Apple for sneaky software updates that deliberately throttled phone performance—effectively nudging users to upgrade.
How the Fines Rolled Out
- Samsung: €10 million for “unfair practices” that slowed down devices, accelerating the phone‑replacement cycle.
- Apple: €5 million for the same misconduct, plus an extra €5 million for failing to give clear guidance on battery upkeep or replacement.
The Software Slump
Both corporations rolled out new operating system updates that caused “serious malfunctions” and noticeably reduced performance. A side note: Apple admitted in 2018 that certain iPhone updates could slow older models with battery issues, but insisted it never aimed to shorten product life span deliberately.
Consumer Voices Loud and Clear
Italian consumer groups were quick to flag these updates as a blatant attempt to push their wallets: “Software updates cut device functionality just to force customers into buying new phones.”
Impact on the Market
This isn’t just a slap on the wrist; it’s a wake‑up call for anyone who follows the tech industry: performance tweaks that hamper user experience can now end up costing big bucks in the EU. The fines serve as a stern reminder that companies can’t play fast‑and‑fright with performance to manipulate sales.
What’s Next?
With the fines in place, Apple and Samsung are expected to revisit their update strategies — hopefully with a dash of transparency and a lot less intentional throttling. Users, meanwhile, can finally breathe easier knowing regulators are keeping an eye on the battlefield of smartphone performance.
