The European Commission has formally accused Qualcomm of violating the law by bribing companies to use its processors. In a letter to the company, the Commission claims "illegal payments" were made to at least one smartphone maker so that only Qualcomm's 3/4G hardware would be used.

In addition to bribing companies, Qualcomm allegedly sold its processors well under their value to hurt Icera (Nvidia), a local competitor. These practices are considered ways Qualcomm has abused its market position.

Qualcomm may be hit with a significant fine if these offences are found to have definitely taken place.