FCC Commissioner Urges DOJ to Include Apple and Google’s TikTok Practices in Antitrust Reviews
In a recently disclosed letter dated December 2nd, a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) commissioner emphasized concerns about Apple and Google continuing to host TikTok on their app stores, despite ongoing US national security apprehensions. The commissioner argued that this reflects the immense “gatekeeper” influence wielded by these tech giants and should therefore be scrutinized as part of any antitrust examinations facing the app stores.
The commissioner, Brendan Carr, underscored potential consumer risks associated with TikTok’s presence on these platforms, particularly regarding fears that user data could be accessed by the Chinese government. Carr highlighted a contradiction in Apple and Google’s assertions about enhancing user security and privacy through their app distribution dominance, suggesting that their control might not be driven solely by competitive or altruistic motives.
Carr’s advocacy aligns with his previous calls for TikTok’s removal, now framing the issue as an antitrust matter rather than solely a security concern. He pointed out that Apple and Google’s purported defenses against antitrust claims appear pretextual in light of their handling of TikTok.
While Google chose not to comment on the matter, Apple and the Justice Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Although the FCC does not typically oversee app stores or social media, Carr has emerged as a prominent voice on TikTok-related issues within the FCC, drawing parallels to the FCC’s past decisions involving Chinese telecom firms like Huawei and ZTE.
Carr’s initiative coincides with broader efforts by critics to apply antitrust laws to major tech companies such as Apple and Google. Allegations of monopolistic practices in their app store operations have been a focal point, including through lawsuits like Epic Games’ 2020 case, which is currently under appeal.
TikTok, meanwhile, has been engaged in negotiations with the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) to address national security concerns, including plans to move US user data to Oracle’s cloud servers. The company has asserted rigorous data controls but has faced scrutiny over its ties to China and access to US user data by Chinese employees.
The unfolding debate underscores ongoing tensions over tech governance and national security, highlighting the intersection of antitrust scrutiny, consumer protection, and geopolitical concerns in the digital age.
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