Apple’s Beats Electronics deal to face EU antitrust regulator ruling by 30 July
Apple’s $3bn (£1.8bn) takeover of Dr Dre and Jimmy Iovine’s Beats Electronics will be scrutinised by European Union antitrust regulators who will decide by 30 July whether to OK the deal.
The European Commission said it had been notified of the deal on Tuesday and that it would take 25 days to consider whether it would clear the deal unconditionally or demand concessions if it saw competition issues. It can also investigate if it has concerns.
Beats founders Iovine and Dre will join Apple as the technology and computer giant takes over their firm, which is known for its iconic headphones.
Apple chief executive Tim Cook said on the acquisition last month: “Music is such an important part of all of our lives and holds a special place within our hearts at Apple. That’s why we have kept investing in music and are bringing together these extraordinary teams so we can continue to create the most innovative music products and services in the world.”