Apple Inc. defended its App Store following criticism by companies such as Spotify Technology SA over the company's practices and policies.

In a post on its website, the tech giant said it takes responsibility for its App Store and seeks to ensure that all apps follow its guidelines to provide a safe experience for users. Apple said it rejects apps for any content or behavior that violates its policies and puts the security and privacy of its users at risk.

Apple also noted that 84% of the apps are free and it only collects a commission from developers when a digital good or service is delivered through the app. The company maintained that it "welcomes competition" from other apps that offer services similar to its own via the App Store, including camera, maps and calendar apps.

The European Commission is reportedly probing Apple following an anti-competition complaint from music streamer Spotify. Spotify accused Apple of introducing "unfair" rules that limit choice and stifle innovation and said it would be forced to hike prices due to a 30% tax that digital services are required to pay for using Apple's system.

Rival music-streaming service Deezer SA and European consumers group BEUC have raised similar concerns.