Some of the biggest technology companies in the world, including Meta Platforms, Microsoft, Elon Musk’s X, and Match Group, have joined Epic Games in accusing Apple of not following a court-ordered injunction regarding payments in the App Store. The companies claim that Apple is in clear violation of the injunction by making it difficult for users to find cheaper payment options for digital content. Apple, however, has stated that it has fully complied with the injunction and that its actions are meant to protect consumers and maintain the integrity of its ecosystem.
Epic Games initially sued Apple in 2020, alleging that the tech giant violated antitrust laws by requiring users to download apps exclusively from the App Store and charging developers high commissions on purchases. The court-ordered injunction required Apple to allow developers to provide links and buttons for alternative payment options. Epic recently accused Apple of contempt, claiming that new rules and fees rendered these links ineffective. The filing by the technology companies argues that Apple’s actions further entrench anti-steering rules, inflate prices, and harm both consumers and developers.
The ongoing legal battle between Epic Games and Apple highlights the contentious issue of app store policies and fees. With the U.S. Supreme Court declining to hear either party’s appeal, the dispute remains unresolved. Apple has until April 3 to formally respond to Epic’s filing, as the two technology giants continue to clash over the future of the App Store and the rights of developers and users.