Apple has agreed to provide India-specific financial data to the Competition Commission of India, potentially accelerating a lengthy antitrust investigation into App Store practices. The company previously refused to cooperate, arguing the case should pause while it challenges India's penalty law that allows fines on global revenue rather than local earnings alone.

The dispute stems from a 2021 complaint by Match Group and the Alliance of Digital India Foundation, who alleged Apple abused its dominant position in iPhone app distribution. The CCI concluded its investigation in 2024, finding that developers cannot use third-party payment services for in-app purchases, making the App Store an "unavoidable trading partner" for app creators.

Apple faced mounting pressure after a Delhi High Court judge directed cooperation with the investigation in May. The company sought a final extension until June 25 to submit the requested financial information, which the regulator approved. This cooperation requirement emerged as Apple simultaneously contests the broader penalty framework that could expose it to up to $38 billion in fines.

The case intensifies as India accounts for 9% of the smartphone market, up from roughly 2% five years ago, making it increasingly vital to Apple's growth strategy. The company has expanded manufacturing in the country as part of efforts to reduce reliance on China, but regulatory challenges now threaten that investment.