Spotify Technology SA (NYSE:SPOT) boss and founder Daniel Elk believes Apple is unfairly dominating markets like the App Store, a view he claims is shared among other tech entrepreneurs.
Elk, who has been on the offensive regarding Apple’s behaviour, says tech companies are afraid to stand up to the world’s largest company in fear of “retaliation”.
“So many entrepreneurs say they agree but are afraid of speaking out because of retaliation,” he told the Times.
For several years Spotify has been at odds with the tech giant over the way it operates its app store, with the music streaming service – which is also a direct rival to Apple Music – claiming the tech giant uses anti-competitive behaviour.
From charging large fees on sales made through the App Store to delaying or rejecting updates Spotify wishes to add, the Swedish music company has called out many of the bad practices it alleges Apple uses.
Speaking to lawmakers in the US and writing open letters to EU regulators, Elk has tried his fair share of attempts to fight back against the iPhone maker.
Now he’s hoping the UK can play a pivotal role through its Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Bill.
Making its way through parliament now, the bill is focused on battling market dominance while protecting the rights of consumers, but Elk is wary of tech giants like Apple “aggressively fighting” the legislation.
“We’re continuing to discuss this with consumer groups, Westminster and various parts of parliament to get this over the finish line, but I feel good about it — it’s a great thing for the UK, great for businesses, great for consumers,” he added.
Earlier this month, Elk revealed Spotify, which he set up 15 years ago, would not have had the same success if created today, claiming Apple’s dominance would have suppressed any potential growth.
Spotify shares are down a little under 1% on Wednesday, having opened at around €160.