The European Union (EU) has taken a significant step in its ongoing battle against the dominance of major technology companies. The European Commission has accused Apple of violating the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA) through its App Store policies, marking the first time a tech giant has faced charges under this new legislation.

The Commission's preliminary findings indicate that Apple's App Store rules prevent app developers from freely steering consumers to alternative purchasing options, a practice that the DMA aims to address. The EU regulators have also raised concerns about the fees Apple imposes on developers, stating that they exceed what is "strictly necessary" for the company's remuneration.

This crackdown on Apple is not the first time the tech giant has faced regulatory challenges in the EU. Earlier this year, Apple was fined €1.8 billion ($1.93 billion) for anti-competitive practices in the music streaming market. The Commission's latest investigation also includes a review of Apple's core technology fee and the eligibility criteria for offering alternative app stores or direct app distribution on iPhones.

Alongside the EU's actions against Apple, the bloc is also tightening regulations in the crypto market. Italy, for example, is preparing to implement stringent measures to monitor crypto asset risks, including hefty fines for insider trading, unlawful disclosure of inside information, and market manipulation.

These regulatory developments in both the tech and crypto sectors suggest a concerted effort by the EU to limit the power of dominant firms and promote fair competition. The intersection of these actions highlights the EU's resolve to create a more level playing field for businesses and consumers alike.

For companies operating in both the tech and crypto markets, the increased scrutiny and stricter compliance requirements imposed by the EU will likely require a reassessment of their strategies to align with the evolving digital regulatory landscape.