In a recent development, major tech companies including Meta, Microsoft, Match Group, and X have come forward to criticize Apple for not complying with a federal court order issued by Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers in its trial against Epic Games. The court order stated that Apple could not restrict app developers from directing users to payment options outside of their apps using buttons, external links, or other calls to action.
According to the amicus brief filed by the aforementioned companies, Apple’s proposed solution to allow developers to point to an external purchase link is deemed as complex and burdensome. The companies argue that Apple’s suggested 12 to 27 percent fee on external purchases defeats the purpose of the court order, as it is only marginally lower than the fees imposed on in-app purchases. This external purchase fee could deter developers from setting up their own payment systems, as the additional transaction costs could outweigh the benefits of moving away from Apple’s ecosystem.
The companies further elaborate on how Apple’s in-app payment requirements have a detrimental impact on them and their users. For instance, Meta reveals that Apple’s decision to require them to pay the in-app purchase fee for a product that allows advertisers to boost posts within their apps has led to increased costs for users. Meta contends that if they were allowed to direct users to their own payment options, the additional fees could have been avoided.
Epic Games, the original plaintiff in the trial against Apple, has called for the enforcement of the court order, accusing Apple of blatant violation of the injunction. The hearing regarding the enforcement of the injunction is scheduled for April 30th, giving Apple the opportunity to present its response to the allegations raised by Epic Games and the amicus brief filed by other tech companies.
Apple’s handling of in-app purchases and payment restrictions has come under scrutiny from major tech companies, who argue that the current system is not in compliance with the court order. The complexity and burden of Apple’s proposed solution, along with the impact on developers and users, highlight the need for a more transparent and equitable approach to in-app purchases within the iOS ecosystem. The upcoming hearing on the enforcement of the injunction will be crucial in determining the next steps in this ongoing legal battle.