Apple has filed an appeal against a recent court ruling that mandates the company to permit developers to include external payment links within their iOS apps. This legal development stems from the ongoing antitrust lawsuit initiated by Epic Games, challenging Apple’s App Store policies.
The court’s decision, delivered by Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers, found Apple in violation of a 2021 injunction that prohibited the company from restricting developers from directing users to alternative payment methods.
The judge criticized Apple’s implementation of deterrent measures, such as warning screens and a 27% commission on external transactions, deeming them non-compliant with the original order. Consequently, Apple has been ordered to cease these practices and allow unimpeded access to third-party payment options within apps.
In response, Apple has updated its App Store guidelines to align with the court’s directives, enabling U.S. developers to incorporate external payment links. However, the company has expressed its intention to appeal the ruling, indicating ongoing legal proceedings in this matter.
This development holds significant implications for app developers and the broader digital economy, potentially reducing the financial burden imposed by Apple’s in-app purchase commissions and fostering a more competitive marketplace.
