Apple rejects monopoly allegations, presents ‘intense competition’ as defense in court

Apple has submitted a letter to a New Jersey federal judge, stating that it is not a monopolist and faces strong competition in the tech sector. The letter, which previews Apple’s bid to dismiss a US antitrust lawsuit, addresses the claims made by the Justice Department. The government alleges that Apple engaged in anticompetitive behavior by excluding third-party access to its platform and making design decisions that lock users into purchasing iPhones. Apple’s response argues that its conduct involves making unilateral decisions about allowing third parties access to its platform, and it denies the allegations of anticompetitive behavior. The company also disputes the claim that it has a smartphone monopoly, stating that it faces competition from Google and Samsung. Apple contends that the government has failed to properly define the relevant market and establish Apple’s monopoly power within it. The company maintains that its decisions about dealing with third parties do not constitute exclusionary conduct. Additionally, Apple challenges the assertion that its design decisions corner smartphone buyers, arguing that consumers have the option to switch to competitor platforms if they are dissatisfied with Apple’s limitations.