This inquiry, which began in July 2024, is part of a broader scrutiny into potential anti-competitive behavior related to 'unfair commercial terms' imposed by Apple on app developers.

The CNMC believes these practices could violate EU law by limiting competition, although the specific nature of the issues has not been detailed.

The CNMC initiated its probe last year with a 24-month timeline, which remains unchanged as of the latest announcement.

The CNMC has expanded its investigation into Apple to determine if the company has enforced a pricing schedule that developers must follow to distribute their apps in the App Store, a practice that may breach competition laws.

A recent report by the CMA has highlighted a duopoly between Apple and Google in the mobile platform market, raising concerns about their app review processes and the implications for developers.

The CNMC has one year to complete its investigation, and the expansion of the probe does not prejudge its outcome.

While the CNMC has warned that Apple's actions might violate European Union competition laws, it has emphasized that the expanded investigation does not imply a predetermined outcome.

Since the investigation began, Apple has consistently denied the allegations, asserting that all Spanish developers compete on a level playing field within the App Store.

An Apple spokesperson reiterated the company's commitment to cooperating with the CNMC, describing the App Store as a safe platform for users and a valuable opportunity for developers.

If found guilty of anti-competitive practices, Apple could face fines of up to 10% of its global turnover from the previous year under Spain's Law on the Protection of Competition.

The closed ecosystem maintained by Apple, particularly around its iPhones and iPads, is under scrutiny as it may conflict with European competition regulations.

Industry experts note that Apple is under increasing pressure from antitrust rulings and competitor actions, which could threaten its dominance in the app ecosystem.