European Commission set to talk antitrust with Apple, music labels

Last we heard anything about Apple's antitrust troubles in Europe was in June, when the company issued a last-minute response to the European Commission's investigation into the matter. Now, according to Ars Technica, Apple is getting ready to meet directly with the EC, with a number of music labels also along for the ride. The hearings, dealing with alleged unfair pricing practices of Apple's iTunes stores in Europe, will take place September 19th and 20th, although the EC is apparently stressing that they will not lead directly to a final decision. Interestingly, EMI, Universal Music Group, and Sony BMG will each be meeting with the EC and Apple separately. That's apparently being done in order to protect the "confidential nature" of each company's agreement with Apple.