European regulators scrutinise Apple's demands on networks selling iPhone and iPad

The demands made by Apple on networks selling its iPhone and iPad devices are being scrutinised by European regulators.

The European Commission today said it was "actively monitoring" the issue amid concerns over the terms imposed by the world's largest company on telecom companies who carry its products

Several operators are understood to have complained to the Commission over the contracts demanded by Apple.

One source told Reuters: "Apple insists on a certain level of subsidies and marketing for the iPhone".

"Generally, we are actively monitoring developments in this market," said a spokesman for the Commission. "We will, of course, intervene if there are indications of anti-competitive behavior to the detriment of consumers."

However, he said there "have been no formal complaints".

A spokeswoman for Apple said: "Our contracts fully comply with local laws wherever we do business, including the EU."