The U.S. Department of Justice, with 16 state attorneys general, filed an antitrust lawsuit against Apple on Mar 21, 2024, claiming it holds a monopoly in the US smartphone market.

The lawsuit accuses Apple of stifling competition and innovation by restricting certain apps and services, and it suggests structural remedies that may include breaking up the company.

The case against Apple mirrors its regulatory challenges in Europe, where it faced fines and had to make concessions for anti-competitive practices, such as restricting app developers and music streaming services.

The EU's Digital Markets Act forced Apple to allow external competition in its app store, indicating a similar potential outcome for the US lawsuit.

The DOJ's lawsuit aims to protect competing technologies in streaming, messaging, and digital payments from Apple's monopolistic practices.

Apple's stock value fell by three percent following the lawsuit announcement, signifying market concerns over the company's future business practices.

The lawsuit's resolution could lead to significant changes in the tech industry, potentially lowering costs for consumers and opening up opportunities for developers and mobile gaming companies.