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German antitrust authority tests Apple's revised app tracking rules for competition compliance

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on December 2, 2025

1 min read

· Last updated: January 20, 2026

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German antitrust authority tests Apple's revised app tracking rules for competition compliance
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BERLIN, Dec 2 (Reuters) - Germany's antitrust authority said on Tuesday it is assessing solutions proposed by Apple to address competition concerns over its App Tracking Transparency Framework (ATTF)

German Antitrust Authority Reviews Apple's App Tracking Rules

BERLIN, Dec 2 (Reuters) - Germany's antitrust authority said on Tuesday it is assessing solutions proposed by Apple to address competition concerns over its App Tracking Transparency Framework (ATTF) and has launched a market test to gather feedback from app publishers, media associations, content providers and data protection authorities.

Bundeskartellamt chief Andreas Mundt said Apple had agreed to introduce neutral consent prompts for both its own apps and third-party apps, and that the authority's preliminary assessment indicated the proposals may resolve competition issues.

A final decision would follow the market test.

(Reporting by Kirsti Knolle, Editing by Friederike Heine)

Key Takeaways

  • Germany's antitrust authority is assessing Apple's App Tracking Transparency Framework.
  • Apple proposes neutral consent prompts for apps.
  • Market test launched to gather feedback from stakeholders.
  • Preliminary assessment suggests proposals may resolve issues.
  • Final decision pending market test results.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is App Tracking Transparency Framework?
The App Tracking Transparency Framework is a feature implemented by Apple that requires apps to obtain user consent before tracking their data across other apps and websites, aimed at enhancing user privacy.
What are consent prompts?
Consent prompts are notifications or requests that ask users for permission to collect or use their personal data, often used in apps to comply with privacy regulations.
What is competition compliance?
Competition compliance refers to adherence to laws and regulations designed to promote fair competition in the marketplace, preventing practices that could harm consumers or stifle competition.
What is a market test?
A market test is a method used by regulatory authorities to evaluate the impact of proposed changes or solutions in a real-world setting, gathering feedback from stakeholders to inform final decisions.

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