Apple Drops 30% Fee on External Links

The ongoing Epic vs Apple legal battle has taken another turn, with Apple potentially being forced to eliminate its 30% commission on external payment links. This development stems from a significant ruling in the long-standing dispute, which began when Epic Games allowed Fortnite players to make in-app purchases directly, bypassing Apple's App Store fees.

For consumers, this means Apple is increasingly seen as the loser in the original case. Previously, Apple had to remove fees and restrictions on external links in the EU, but the US had been more favorable to them. Now, the landscape is shifting decisively against Apple.

Under the new ruling, Apple is prohibited from charging fees on purchases made outside their app ecosystem, restricting developers' ability to place or format links, limiting calls to action such as banners that highlight potential savings, excluding certain apps or developers, and using 'scare screens' to influence consumer choice. Instead, Apple must employ neutral messaging when users are directed to third-party sites.

While Epic may have faced setbacks in individual battles, it appears to be winning the broader conflict. Apple intends to appeal the decision, but overturning the judges' rulings seems unlikely.

With the Epic Games Store now established on Android and iOS in the EU, and Android in the US, the significance of the iOS App Store may diminish over time.