Apple Fights to Delay External App Payment Ruling
Apple is attempting to postpone a court order mandating external payment options for iOS apps in the U.S. This ruling would allow developers to bypass Apple's commission fees by directing users to alternative payment systems.
The company filed an emergency motion with an appeals court seeking a partial stay on the ruling, which stems from the ongoing legal battle with Epic Games. Last week, a U.S. court sided with Epic Games, finding Apple non-compliant with a 2021 order.
This new ruling compels Apple to permit apps on the U.S. App Store to include features redirecting users to external payment systems. It also prevents Apple from collecting commissions on these payments and displaying warning messages about non-Apple payment systems.
Apple argues the ruling unfairly expands the scope of the original injunction, which did not prohibit commission charges on external payment systems. The company claims it complied with the 2021 injunction by allowing external payment links, though it continued to levy a 27% commission on those transactions.
Apple asserts the new order will result in substantial financial losses and claims the restrictions are punitive rather than based on unlawful conduct. The company argues the changes will cause "grave irreparable harm" to its business.
Earlier this week, Apple filed an appeal against the court decision. Despite the appeal, Apple has already begun complying with the order. Developers can now link users to external payment options, and companies like Spotify and Amazon have updated their apps accordingly.
More information about the original ruling can be found here: Court Ruling Document.
