Apple allegedly monopolizes e-books, e-book price restrictions be resisted

Recently the United States’ five largest publishers protested against the U.S. Justice Department’s ruling on Apple monopolizing the e-book prices.

These five publishers are Hachette Group, HarperCollins publisher, Penguin Group, Simon Schuster press and Macmillan. The publishers claim that if U.S. Department of Justice restricts Apple pricing e-books and that would harm their interests, what’s more, destroying their previous settlement agreement with the government.

The government said that Apple and publishers allegedly jointed to raise e-book prices. The head of U.S. Justice Department’s antitrust division, Bill Baer said that:” Apple wants to monopolize competition in the field of e-books, and we will prevent Apple’s unlawful acts.”

According to government’s plans, within five years Apple and the nation’s five largest publishers shall not sign any new contract that may restrict the e-book price competition.

According to Reuters, Apple is also prohibited providing excerpts of the film, music and television on iOS on the ground that this may improve the prices when competitors selling these contents.

Apple said the Justice Department’s allegations were “brutal interference” to its business, and it would appeal.

Apple allegedly monopolizes e-books, e-book price restrictions be resisted