U.S. Justice Department Sues Apple for Smartphone Market Monopoly, Alleging Restrictions Harm Competition
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The U.S. Justice Department is suing Apple for antitrust violations, alleging it has monopolized the smartphone market and edged out rivals.
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The lawsuit centers claims that Apple imposes restrictions that limit developers' access to iPhone hardware/software, resulting in fewer options and higher prices.
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Apple's control over the iPhone experience, through features like iMessage and Apple Pay, makes it hard for users to switch away from iPhones.
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Apple says the restrictions protect user privacy and security, and that the lawsuit threatens its ability to create innovative products.
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This is the third antitrust lawsuit the Justice Department has filed against Apple in the past 20 years.