CCI Sets Final Hearing in Apple Antitrust Case
The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has moved forward in its antitrust proceedings against Apple, fixing a final hearing for 21 May 2026 after the company failed to submit key financial data sought during investigation.
The case originates from a 2021 complaint, with a 2024 investigation finding that Apple may have abused its dominant position by requiring developers to use its in-app payment system.
Apple has argued before the Delhi High Court that penalty calculations based on global turnover could expose it to fines of up to $38 billion, which it has challenged as disproportionate.
What stands out is not just the case, but the direction. India is increasingly aligning with global regulators in examining platform control, app ecosystems, and digital market dominance.
Aadhaar App Mandate Dropped After Industry Pushback
In April 2026, the Government decided not to proceed with a proposal requiring smartphone manufacturers to pre-install the Aadhaar application on devices.
The Aadhaar system currently covers around 1.34 billion people, making it one of the largest digital identity frameworks globally.
The proposal faced resistance from device manufacturers citing security risks, cost implications, and system-level constraints. The withdrawal indicates a cautious approach where regulatory ambition meets practical industry limits.
Antitrust Enforcement Expands Beyond Technology
In a separate development, the CCI’s ongoing cartel investigation involving Anheuser-Busch InBev (AB InBev) saw the company being reclassified from a witness to a party under investigation.
The case involves alleged exclusivity arrangements with 42 retailers in Telangana, potentially restricting market competition.
If violations are established, penalties under competition law may extend to up to three times profits or 10% of annual turnover per year of contravention.
This signals that enforcement is no longer limited to technology platforms. Traditional sectors are also under scrutiny.
Digital Regulation Continues to Evolve
Recent policy discussions have also included proposals to make certain government advisories legally binding on digital platforms, potentially affecting safe harbour protections.
While not yet finalised in April, these developments indicate a regulatory shift toward greater enforceability and platform accountability, particularly in areas involving content control and digital communication.
Where This Leaves Businesses
April did not bring a single sweeping legislative change. What it did show is a pattern.
- Regulatory bodies are becoming more assertive
- Data and disclosure are becoming central to enforcement
- Digital markets are under closer scrutiny
- Even non-tech sectors are facing competition law pressure
For businesses, the shift is clear. Compliance is no longer limited to filing and reporting. It increasingly involves how business models themselves are structured and operated.