Apple has been found in violation of a 2021 court injunction concerning its App Store policies, marking a significant development in the ongoing antitrust battle with Epic Games (via MacRumors).
U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers ruled that Apple deliberately obstructed developers from directing users to alternative payment methods outside the App Store, thereby maintaining its commission structure of 15% to 30%.
The court’s decision mandates that Apple must cease inhibiting developers from communicating with users about off-app purchase options and cannot impose new commissions on such transactions. Furthermore, Apple is prohibited from collecting fees on external purchases and from interfering with developers’ ability to include links or buttons directing users to alternative payment platforms.
Judge Rogers criticized Apple’s senior executives, accusing finance vice-president Alex Roman of lying under oath and stating that CEO Tim Cook disregarded advice to comply with the court’s orders. The matter has been referred to the U.S. Attorney for potential criminal contempt proceedings.
In response, Apple stated, “We strongly disagree with the decision. We will comply with the court’s order and we will appeal.” Despite plans to appeal, Apple has announced that it will implement the required changes to its App Store policies in the U.S.
This ruling is a significant victory for Epic Games and other developers who have long contested Apple’s control over the App Store ecosystem. Epic CEO Tim Sweeney announced that Fortnite will return to the U.S. App Store, highlighting the broader implications for app developers seeking more flexibility in payment options.
The decision also aligns with global regulatory trends challenging Apple’s App Store practices. In the European Union, Apple has faced scrutiny under the Digital Markets Act, leading to policy updates allowing developers to provide information and promote offers at external app marketplaces or websites.
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