Apple have been accused by United States authorities of colluding with publishers to increase the price of e-books, costing consumers “hundreds of millions of dollars”.
Lawrence Buterman, a lawyer at the Department of Justice, was speaking at the start of an expected three-week antitrust trial in which he said Apple was targeting Amazon’s grip on the market.
During opening remarks yesterday (Monday), Buterman said: “Apple told publishers that Apple – and only Apple – could get prices up in their industry.”
If Apple are found guilty another trial will need to take place with state attorney general to decide if a fine should take place. Apple deny the charges.
Buterman argued customers paid “hundreds of millions of dollars more than they would have” because of an agreement between Apple and publishers to reject Amazon’s offer of US$9.99 deals for new releases and bestsellers and push for a renegotiation.
Evidence submitted by the late Apple co-founder Steve Jobs will be analysed as part of the case, including emails sent between him and James Murdoch, head of Harper Collins publishers.
Apple’s chief executive officer (CEO) Tim Cook has previously stated he would not settle the case outside of court, insisting that Apple has done nothing wrong.
The case continues.
