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Epic Games, the creator of “Fortnite,” has accused Apple of breaching a court injunction governing its App Store practices, prompting Epic to request that a U.S. judge hold Apple in contempt and cease what it calls “sham” compliance.
Legal Battle Over App Store Practices:
The ongoing legal fight between Epic Games and Apple dates back to 2020 when Epic alleged that Apple’s App Store practices violated antitrust laws.
Epic contends that Apple’s requirement for consumers to use the App Store, which charges hefty commissions on in-app purchases, stifles competition.
Injunction and Alleged Violations:
A September 2021 injunction permitted developers to include links and buttons directing consumers to alternative payment methods for digital content.
However, Epic claims that Apple blatantly disregards this injunction by imposing new rules and a 27% fee on developers for certain purchases, rendering the provided links commercially unusable.
Epic asserts that Apple’s purported compliance is a facade to safeguard its lucrative commission structure. The company alleges that Apple continues prohibiting buttons and restricts apps from informing users about alternative purchasing options, undermining competition in the digital marketplace.
Apple’s Response and Deadline:
In response to Epic’s accusations, Apple maintains that its actions are consistent with the injunction and serve to protect consumers and the integrity of its ecosystem. According to court proceedings, Apple has until April 3 to formally respond to Epic’s filing.
Escalation and Legal Developments:
The feud between Apple and Epic briefly intensified when Apple barred Epic from launching its online marketplace on iPhones and iPads in Europe, only to backtrack shortly afterward.
The legal battle persists despite legal setbacks, including the U.S. Supreme Court’s refusal to hear Epic’s appeal.
The Epic Games Inc v Apple Inc case is being heard in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. The case number is No. 20-05640.
