Epic Games urges Supreme Court to review Apple antitrust decision

Epic Games Seeks Supreme Court Review of Apple Antitrust Case

Epic Games has petitioned the US Supreme Court to review a recent ruling that cleared Apple of antitrust violations. The dispute stems from Epic’s claim that Apple’s App Store policies restrict developers from using third-party payment systems, violating California’s Unfair Competition law. While the US Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals acknowledged Apple’s practices as having an adverse impact on competition, it ultimately did not meet the threshold for an antitrust case.

Potential Impact on Apple’s Revenue

If Epic Games prevails in its appeal, Apple stands to lose a significant source of revenue from its App Store, where it takes a commission of up to 30% on all transactions. Epic, along with other companies like Spotify and Tile, is part of the Coalition for App Fairness, advocating for changes in Apple’s policies. While rulings in South Korea and the Netherlands have required Apple to allow third-party payments, the tech giant continues to charge a transaction fee.

Ongoing Legal Battles

In addition to its conflict with Apple, Epic Games is also embroiled in a legal dispute with Google over similar app store practices. Both Epic and the Match Group, operators of dating apps like Hinge and Tinder, allege that Google imposes unfair fees and conditions on in-app purchases through the Play Store. The trial for this case is scheduled to begin in the coming weeks.