The European Commission announced on Monday it has launched an "in-depth" investigation into Apple Inc.'s proposed acquisition of the music app Shazam Entertainment Ltd., noting it is concerned the deal could "reduce choice for users of music streaming services."
"The way people listen to music has changed significantly in recent years, with more and more Europeans using music streaming services. Our investigation aims to ensure that music fans will continue to enjoy attractive music streaming offers and won't face less choice as a result of this proposed merger," European Commissioner for Competition Margrethe Vestager stated. According to the EU regulator, it is concerned that Apple will gain access to "commercially sensitive data" about its competitors' users following the transaction and "encourage" them to switch to Apple Music. The Commission noted it will reach its final decision by September 4.
The tech giant first announced it struck a deal to acquire Shazam in December 2017, but it didn't reveal the terms of the agreement.
