European Commission launches sector inquiry on IoT devices for consumers

The European Commission initiated an antitrust competition inquiry into the Internet of things (IoT) devices and services for consumers in the EU. The inquiry will target products and services that are connected to a network and can be controlled from afar, such as smart home appliances and wearable devices. The investigation will also include IoT devices related services such as streaming services and the voice assistants used to access them. The inquiry will focus on the nature, prevalence, and effects of potential competition issues within this sector. If the results identify specific competition issues, it might lead to case investigations to ensure compliance with EU rules on restrictive business practices and abuse of dominant market positions (Articles 101 and 102 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EUn [TFEU]). The commission expects to publish a preliminary report in spring 2021, and the final report will follow in summer 2022.