Apple has been cleared of trying to stifle competition in Europe’s music streaming industry.
An investigatory probe by the European Commission failed to find evidence that Apple engaged in anti-trust behaviour with the launch of Apple Music.
The investigation hoped to discern whether or not Apple’s deals with record labels and streaming services worked against industry rivals.
The European Commission kicked off proceedings back in April, and interviewed various record labels to learn more about Apple’s deals.
No illegal activity was discovered, but the European Union will continue to monitor the market, according to a Reuters report.
Apple launched its fledgling music streaming service, Apple Music, in late June.
The platform faces stiff competition from a host of rivals, including Tidal, Deezer, and current market leader Spotify.
Related: Best Music Streaming Service 2015
It should be noted that Apple Music is also facing scrutiny by the US Federal Trade Commission.
Reports in May suggested FTC anti-trust officials were examining whether Apple was abusing its market position with the launch of a music service.
This week, Apple revealed that it had already signed up 11 million members to its three month free trial.
Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
