Apple tackles two fresh zero-day vulnerabilities in iOS.

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European Union regulators have called on Apple to provide a clarification regarding the company's decision to prevent Epic Games , the creator of Fortnite, from launching its own online marketplace on iPhones and iPads in Europe. The regulators are investigating whether this action by Apple violates EU technology rules.

The move by Apple involved terminating a new developer account established by Epic in Sweden, aimed at reintroducing Fortnite and other games to iPhones in Europe through its own game store on Apple's devices. Epic Games had sought to leverage the newly enacted Digital Markets Act (DMA) in the EU, which mandates Apple to open its closed ecosystem to competitors.

Apple defended its actions by pointing to Epic's previous breaches of contract in their ongoing legal dispute. The European Commission, in response, has sought additional explanations from Apple under the DMA.

"We are also evaluating whether Apple's actions raise doubts on their compliance with the DSA (Digital Services Act) and the P2B (Platform to Business Regulation), given the links between the developer programme membership and the App store as designated VLOP (very large online platform)," stated a spokesperson for the European Commission in an email.

Under the Digital Services Act, account suspension or termination decisions must be proportionate and consider fundamental rights, while the Platform to Business Regulation requires platforms to notify business users before changing terms and conditions or closing an account.

Apple reiterated its position, stating, "Epic's egregious breach of its contractual obligations to Apple led courts to determine that Apple has the right to terminate 'any or all of Epic Games' wholly owned subsidiaries, affiliates, and/or other entities under Epic Games' control at any time and at Apple’s sole discretion.'"

Epic Games, in response, accused Apple of eliminating a major potential competitor to the Apple App Store. The dispute highlights the ongoing tension between tech giants and regulatory efforts to ensure fair competition in digital marketplaces.