The United States Department of Justice filed a major lawsuit against Apple this morning, accusing the tech giant of anticompetitive practices related to its iPhone dominance. Joining the federal department were sixteen state attorneys general.

The lawsuit centers on Apple’s smartphone ecosystem, which the DOJ claims stifles competition. One key piece of evidence is the blue and green bubble messaging system, which visually distinguishes iPhone users from Android users and offers a less functional experience for cross-platform communication.

The suit specifically targets Apple’s control over the premium smartphone market. Regulators allege that Apple makes it difficult for users to switch to competing devices through “contractual restrictions” and a strict App Store vetting process. Furthermore, the DOJ claims Apple suppresses competition in five key areas: super apps, cloud gaming apps, messaging apps, digital wallets, and smartwatch compatibility. The lawsuit argues that Apple prioritizes maintaining its walled garden by prioritizing its own products and services over competitor offerings, ultimately harming consumers and hindering innovation.

Interestingly, the complaint draws a parallel to the DOJ’s historic antitrust case against Microsoft in the 1990s, where Apple itself was on the opposing side advocating for fair competition. The suit highlights how Apple’s current practices seem to contradict Steve Jobs’ past criticisms of Microsoft’s monopolistic tactics.

This lawsuit echoes aspects of Apple’s ongoing legal battle with Epic Games, which also centers on the company’s tight control over the App Store. Apple has long restricted alternative app stores, citing security concerns, but the DOJ views this as an attempt to maintain its control over app distribution and associated fees.

Unsurprisingly, Apple swiftly responded to the lawsuit, arguing that it stifles their ability to compete in the crowded smartphone market. The company emphasizes its focus on user experience, security, and seamless integration across its products. Apple believes the lawsuit undermines its ability to innovate and sets a dangerous precedent for government intervention in technology design.

The green bubble messaging system is another focus point of the lawsuit. The DOJ argues that this visual distinction disparages Android devices and creates a perception of inferior functionality when messaging non-iPhone users. The suit cites internal Apple communications suggesting this design choice is a deliberate strategy to discourage users from switching to Android devices.

This lawsuit comes amidst growing international scrutiny of Apple’s business practices, particularly in the European Union. The Biden administration has also signaled a more aggressive approach towards anticompetitive practices in the tech industry. Attorneys general from sixteen states joined the DOJ in this suit, reflecting a broader concern about Apple’s dominance in the mobile market.

The Coalition for App Fairness, a group that includes Epic Games, Spotify, and other companies locked in legal battles with Apple, applauded the DOJ’s action. They view this lawsuit as a critical step towards dismantling Apple’s control over the mobile app ecosystem and fostering a more competitive environment. The Coalition advocates for both legal action and legislative solutions, like the Open App Markets Act, to create a fairer app marketplace.