Apple wins partial reversal of sanctions in Epic Games antitrust lawsuit
Apple partially overturned sanctions in its antitrust lawsuit with Epic Games, but the core injunction remains in place.Summary
Apple secured a partial reversal of sanctions in its ongoing antitrust battle with Epic Games, as ruled by a U.S. appeals court on Thursday. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals modified a previous contempt order, allowing Apple to claim a reasonable commission on transactions occurring outside its platform, a point of contention raised by Epic Games. However, the court largely upheld the original injunction against Apple, which requires the company to allow developers to direct users to alternative purchasing methods.
The lawsuit, initiated by Epic Games in 2020, aimed to challenge Apple’s control over in-app transactions and distribution. While Apple largely prevailed in the initial case, it was mandated to permit developers to include links to external purchasing options. Epic Games argued that Apple’s subsequent imposition of a 27% commission on purchases made through these links violated the injunction, leading to the contempt finding.
Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney celebrated the ruling, stating it would prevent Apple from imposing “giant junk fees” on developers. Apple did not immediately comment on the decision. The court’s ruling clarifies that Apple can charge a commission on linked-out purchases, but with certain limitations, rejecting Apple’s argument that the injunction should only apply to Epic Games.
(Source：Channel Newsasia)