India’s Competition Commission (CCI) has rejected Apple’s request to pause its antitrust investigation, signaling that proceedings will continue despite the company’s legal challenge before the Delhi High Court. The move highlights India’s firm stance on regulating Big Tech and intensifying scrutiny of dominant app ecosystem practices.
According to a confidential CCI order dated December 31, 2025, Apple had sought a complete stay on the probe while the High Court examines its challenge to India’s revised competition penalty framework. The CCI declined the request, citing repeated delays and extensions sought by Apple over the past year, and warned that the case would move forward if compliance timelines are not met.
The antitrust investigation began in 2022 following complaints from Indian startups and Match Group, owner of Tinder, alleging that Apple abused its dominance in the iOS app market. The complaints centered on Apple’s requirement that developers use its in-app payment system and restrictions on alternative payment options. In 2024, CCI investigators concluded that Apple had misused its dominant position through high in-app purchase fees and restrictive developer policies. Apple has denied the allegations, arguing that it is a smaller player in India compared to Android.
Separately, Apple challenged provisions of the Competition (Amendment) Act, 2024, in the Delhi High Court, objecting to penalties being calculated on global turnover, which could amount to up to 10% of average global services revenue. The next court hearing is scheduled for January 27, 2026.
The CCI made it clear that judicial review of penalty rules does not justify halting the antitrust probe itself. By refusing to grant a stay, the regulator reinforced its commitment to enforcing competition law independently and without procedural delays.
As Apple’s presence in India continues to grow, the outcome of the case could have significant implications for its App Store business model, potentially reshaping the country’s rapidly expanding app economy and setting important precedents for future digital market regulation.
