Apple asks court to access Samsung data to fight US antitrust claims: Here is what we know
Follow UsApple seeks internal Samsung data to support its defence in the ongoing US antitrust case.
The company believes Samsung’s records could show strong competition in smartphones and smartwatches.
Even if approved, South Korean authorities and Samsung can still review or object to the request.
Apple is currently fighting a legal battle with the United States government. As the case moves deeper into the evidence stage, the Cupertino company has sought key evidence from Samsung in South Korea. The government claims that Apple limits competition through its App Store rules and control over iPhone features. As the investigation progresses, both sides are gathering documents to support their arguments. Apple wants access to internal Samsung records, believing they may reveal how competitive the smartphone and smartwatch markets are. The company also hopes the data will show whether user behaviour supports or challenges the government’s claims about its market power in the technology sector.
SurveyThe request comes after Apple tried and failed to get the case dismissed earlier. With the trial process advancing, the company is now focusing on building its defence through documents and market data.
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Apple has now asked the court to issue a formal international request under the Hague Evidence Convention which would allow the company to seek internal records directly from Samsung Electronics in South Korea. Moreover, the company is looking for business reports, market studies, and data related to Samsung’s smartphones, smartwatches, and its app store operations.
Earlier, Apple had already subpoenaed Samsung’s United States arm. However, that unit declined to provide the requested documents, stating that the records are held only by the parent company in South Korea. This led Apple to turn to the international legal process.
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In its filing, Apple argues that the information it seeks is important to the case. It says the request is specific and limited in scope and that there are no other practical ways to obtain the same data. Apple also claims that granting the request would support United States legal interests without harming those of South Korea.
The company believes Samsung’s internal data could help show how often users switch between platforms and how competitive the market actually is. This could play a role in countering the government’s argument that Apple holds too much control. However, even if the court agrees to Apple’s request, it doesn’t mean Apple will definitely get the data. Authorities in South Korea still need to check it, and Samsung could object based on local laws before sharing any information.
