Apple’s App Store Changes Criticized in Epic Games’ Latest Appeal Filing

Apple Challenges Court Order on App Store Fees in Epic Games Dispute

Cupertino, California – Apple is vigorously defending its App Store business model, filing a reply brief with the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals to challenge a recent court order. The core of the dispute centers on whether Apple can charge fees to developers who direct customers to purchase options outside of the App Store ecosystem. This latest growth escalates a protracted legal battle with Epic Games, the creator of Fortnite.

The Roots of the Conflict

The legal clash began in 2020 when Epic Games directly challenged Apple’s App Store policies, arguing they constitute an anti-competitive monopoly. Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers initially ruled in favor of Apple on most counts in 2021, but also stipulated that Apple could not prohibit developers from including links to option payment methods. However, when Apple implemented this change in 2024, it levied a commission-ranging from 12 to 27 percent-on sales made through those links. Epic Games protested, claiming these fees violated the spirit of the original ruling.

Court’s Intervention and Apple’s Appeal

Judge Gonzalez Rogers agreed with Epic Games in April 2025,declaring Apple in “willful violation” of the initial order. She issued a more stringent mandate prohibiting any fees and granting developers complete control over the presentation of links within their apps.Apple afterward complied with the revised order but formally appealed the decision,setting the stage for the current legal challenge. The company contends that its initial commission structure was in line with the original court order.

Apple’s Core Arguments

apple asserts that the amended injunction represents an unconstitutional overreach, effectively stripping the company of its right to be compensated for its intellectual property. The company claims that the court is attempting to rewrite the original injunction, imposing new requirements that extend beyond what is legally permissible. Apple’s filing argues that the ruling forces it to convey messages with which it disagrees, violating its First Amendment rights.

Moreover, apple believes the court’s decision sets a dangerous precedent for other technology companies. An unfavorable ruling could potentially jeopardize the established revenue models of numerous platforms that rely on commission-based systems.According to a recent report by Sensor tower, App Store revenue reached $85.2 billion in 2024, highlighting the significant financial stakes involved.

The Supreme Court Precedent

Apple is also invoking the recent Supreme Court case of Trump v. Casa, which established limits on the scope of global injunctions, stating that such injunctions should be “broader than necessary to provide complete relief.” As Epic Games is the sole plaintiff in this case,Apple argues that an injunction affecting all developers is unduly broad and should be tailored to address Epic’s specific grievances.

Key Ruling	Original Order (2021)	Revised Order (April 2025)
Linking to External Purchases	Allowed, with potential commission.	Allowed, with no commission.
Commission on External Sales	12-27%	0%
Link Presentation Control	apple retains control.	Developers have full control.

Did You Know? The ongoing dispute between Apple and Epic Games has broader implications for the entire app ecosystem, potentially influencing how developers distribute and monetize their applications.

Pro Tip: Developers should closely monitor this case as it could significantly alter the landscape of App Store policies and revenue models.

The outcome of this appeal will have far-reaching consequences for the App Store and the developers who rely on it.If the Ninth Circuit Court upholds the updated injunction, Apple may be forced to fundamentally alter its App Store policies, potentially opening the door to increased competition and lower prices for consumers.

The Broader Context of App Store Regulations

The Apple versus Epic Games lawsuit is part of a larger global conversation about the power of tech giants and the fairness of app store ecosystems. Regulators across the globe are scrutinizing app store policies and considering legislation to promote competition and protect developers. For instance, the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in the European Union is aimed at curbing the power of gatekeeper platforms like Apple and Google. Similar discussions are underway in the United States and other countries, suggesting that the pressure on app store operators will likely continue for the foreseeable future.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Apple and Epic Games Dispute

• what is the central issue in the Apple and Epic Games case? The primary dispute revolves around Apple’s App Store fees and policies, which Epic Games argues are anti-competitive.
• What did the court initially rule in 2021? The court allowed developers to link to external purchase options but did not initially restrict Apple’s ability to charge a commission.
• What changed with the April 2025 ruling? The court prohibited Apple from charging any fees on purchases made through links to external websites.
• What is Apple’s core argument in its appeal? Apple argues that the revised injunction violates its First amendment rights and infringes on its intellectual property.
• What is the significance of the Trump v. Casa case? Apple is arguing the Trump v. Casa precedent means the injunction is too broad, as it applies to all developers, not just Epic Games.
• Could this ruling affect other app stores? Yes, a ruling in favor of Epic Games could set a precedent that impacts other app store ecosystems.
• What dose this mean for consumers? Potential outcomes could include lower app prices and more choices for purchasing digital content.

What do you think about Apple’s response to the court order? Do you believe app store fees are fair to developers and consumers alike?

Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation!

How do Apple’s anti-steering provisions specifically limit developers’ ability to inform users about alternative payment options?

The Core of the Dispute: Anti-Steering Provisions

Epic Games’ ongoing legal battle with Apple took a new turn with their latest appeal filing, heavily criticizing recent changes to the App Store and arguing thay continue to stifle competition.At the heart of the contention are Apple’s anti-steering provisions – rules that prevent developers from informing users about alternative payment methods outside of the app Store’s in-app purchase system.

These provisions where initially modified following the initial court ruling in the Apple v. Epic Games case, but epic argues the alterations are insufficient and maintain an unfair ecosystem. The filing specifically targets Apple’s continued prohibition on directing users to lower prices or different purchasing options available on the web or through other platforms.This directly impacts developers’ ability to avoid Apple’s standard 30% commission (reduced to 15% for smaller developers).

Key Arguments Presented in the Appeal Filing

Epic’s appeal doesn’t simply rehash old arguments. It focuses on the practical effects of the modified App Store policies, claiming they create significant hurdles for developers. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:

Limited Communication: Developers are still severely restricted in how they can communicate with their users about alternative purchasing options. Apple allows limited “link-out” functionality, but with significant restrictions on the messaging and presentation.

Developer Program license Agreement (DPLA) Restrictions: The DPLA remains a major point of contention. Epic argues the DPLA’s terms are overly broad and give Apple unchecked power over app distribution and payment processing.

Lack of Interoperability: The filing emphasizes the lack of interoperability within the Apple ecosystem. Developers are unable to easily offer cross-platform services or allow users to transfer digital goods purchased outside the App Store.

Impact on Smaller Developers: While the 15% commission reduction for smaller developers is acknowledged, Epic contends it doesn’t address the fundamental issue of Apple’s control over the entire payment process. The filing suggests the restrictions still make it difficult for smaller companies to compete effectively.

digital Markets Act (DMA) Compliance: Epic argues Apple’s changes are a superficial attempt to comply with the EU’s Digital Markets Act, designed to promote competition in digital markets, and don’t represent genuine change.

The Role of In-App Purchase (IAP) and Commission Fees

The 30% commission charged by Apple on in-app purchases remains a central issue. Epic argues this fee is exorbitant and unfairly burdens developers, reducing their profits and hindering innovation. The filing details how this commission impacts various app categories, particularly gaming and subscription services.

Alternative Payment Systems: Epic’s core argument revolves around the right to offer alternative payment systems, allowing developers to bypass Apple’s IAP and avoid the commission.

Direct Payment Options: The company advocates for the ability to directly offer payment options within their apps, giving users more choice and potentially lower prices.

Impact on Game Developers: Game developers, in particular, are heavily impacted by the 30% commission, as in-game purchases are a significant revenue stream.

Real-World Examples & Case Studies

the Fortnite saga itself serves as a prime exmaple. Epic deliberately violated Apple’s App Store policies by introducing a direct payment option within Fortnite, leading to the app’s removal from the App Store and the initiation of the legal battle. This case highlighted the tension between developer autonomy and Apple’s control over its platform.

Beyond Fortnite, several other developers have publicly voiced concerns about Apple’s App Store policies. Spotify, for example, has long criticized Apple’s restrictions on informing users about alternative subscription options. These examples demonstrate a broader pattern of dissatisfaction within the developer community.

Potential Outcomes and Future Implications

The outcome of this appeal could have significant ramifications for the entire app ecosystem.

Further Court Battles: if the appeal is unsuccessful, Epic is likely to pursue further legal challenges.

Regulatory Scrutiny: The case continues to attract attention from regulators worldwide,potentially leading to increased scrutiny of Apple’s App Store practices.

Changes to App Store Policies: A favorable ruling for Epic could force Apple to make more substantial changes to its App Store policies, allowing developers greater freedom and versatility.

impact on App Pricing: Increased competition could lead to lower app prices and more affordable subscription options for consumers.

Understanding Key Terms

Anti-Steering: Policies preventing developers from directing users to alternative purchasing options.

DPLA (developer Program License Agreement): The contract between Apple and app developers outlining the rules for distributing apps on the App Store.

IAP (In-App Purchase): Apple’s system for processing payments within apps.

DMA (Digital Markets act): EU legislation aimed at promoting competition in digital markets.

* Commission Fees: The percentage apple charges developers on in-app purchases.