“By setting strict rules on the App store that disadvantage competing music streaming services, Apple deprives users of cheaper music streaming choices and distorts competition”
-Executive Vice-President for Digital Margrethe Vestager
Story of the week: in a landmark decision, the European Commission issued a Statement of Objections against Apple over the music streaming case. This is a formal step in an EU antitrust investigation against Apple, which is also being scrutinised over its payment service Apple Pay.
The music streaming case was initiated by Spotify’s complaint that accused Apple of abusing of its market power to favour its own Apple Music app. The European Commission’s preliminary finding acknowledged the complaint, considering that Apple has a gatekeeping power since Apple devices are only able to download apps from the App Store.
Documento, Costas Vaxevanis, has said on social media there is a death contract out against him.
The claim comes two weeks after Greek society was shocked when Giorgos Karaivaz, a well-known Greek journalist covering police-related issues, was shot dead in a mafia-style execution in front of his house.
A number of politicians reacted strongly to Vaxevanis’ comments, asking the Greek government to take immediate measures to protect the journalist.
“Immediately after the complaints of the journalist Costas Vaxevanis about threats against his life, additional measures were taken to protect him. As early as yesterday, by my order, the Chief of the Hellenic Police contacted him. The case is being investigated in cooperation with the prosecutor’s office,” announced Minister of Civil Protection Michalis Chrysochoidis.
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In today’s news from the Capitals:
PRAGUE
Babiš calls EU Commission auditors ‘mafia’ for confirming conflict of interest. The European Commission’s final audit report regarding the conflict of interest allegations levelled against Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš on Friday has triggered a heated reaction from the PM himself. Read more.