Amid ongoing legal scrutiny, Apple has taken a new step in its defence strategy by approaching a US court to obtain internal records from Samsung Electronics in South Korea. The request is linked to the antitrust case filed by the US Department of Justice (DOJ) over Apple’s App Store practices and control of the iPhone ecosystem.
The lawsuit, filed in March 2024 by the DOJ along with several states, accuses Apple of limiting competition through its App Store rules, developer restrictions, and control over key iPhone features. After Apple’s attempt to dismiss the case, the proceedings have now entered the discovery phase, where companies gather and exchange evidence.
In a filing dated April 7, Apple requested a formal Letter of Request under the Hague Evidence Convention. This legal process allows access to documents from foreign entities. Apple is seeking Samsung’s internal data, including market research, financial records, and analysis related to smartphones, smartwatches, and app store operations.
Earlier, Apple had issued a subpoena to Samsung Electronics America, but the US subsidiary declined to provide the requested documents. It stated that the data is held only by its South Korean parent company, a position it repeated multiple times.
Apple argues that Samsung’s internal records could help demonstrate the level of competition in the market. The company is particularly interested in insights on how users switch between platforms and how its policies impact consumer behaviour. The filing highlights tools such as Samsung’s Smart Switch, which allows users to transfer data from an iPhone to a Galaxy device, as a potential source of relevant data.
Additionally, Apple is seeking information related to Samsung’s Galaxy Store, messaging services, and digital wallet offerings, including details on transaction fees.
In its submission, Apple stated that the requested evidence is essential to its defence and that the request is narrowly defined. The company also noted that there are no alternative ways to access this information and that the move aligns with US legal interests without conflicting with South Korea’s legal system.
Also read: Viksit Workforce for a Viksit Bharat
Do Follow: The Mainstream LinkedIn | The Mainstream Facebook | The Mainstream Youtube | The Mainstream Twitter
About us:
The Mainstream is a premier platform delivering the latest updates and informed perspectives across the technology business and cyber landscape. Built on research-driven, thought leadership and original intellectual property, The Mainstream also curates summits & conferences that convene decision makers to explore how technology reshapes industries and leadership. With a growing presence in India and globally across the Middle East, Africa, ASEAN, the USA, the UK and Australia, The Mainstream carries a vision to bring the latest happenings and insights to 8.2 billion people and to place technology at the centre of conversation for leaders navigating the future.
