Apple proposes 15% cut on external purchases
Apple wants a cut of purchases made outside its App Store, proposing a 15% commission on external links.
The update
Apple has proposed a new fee structure to a federal judge, asking for commissions of up to 15% on purchases made through external links in iOS apps. The proposal includes a 5% rate for small business developers and 10% for apps in specific partner programs or subscription renewals. This move comes as the company faces legal pressure to detail its commission structure after the Supreme Court rejected a bid to delay the case.
Why it matters
The proposal could reshape app economics, forcing developers to pay Apple a fee even when directing users to external payment systems. It also marks a significant escalation in the ongoing legal battle with Epic Games, which argues the fees are excessive. If approved, this structure would set a precedent for how digital marketplaces regulate external transactions.
What to watch
Developers and regulators will closely monitor whether the judge approves these rates. Epic Games has already pushed back, calling the proposal “far outside the bounds.” The outcome could influence future antitrust rulings and the broader landscape of digital marketplace regulations.
Sources
- techcrunch.com — details on proposed commission rates and legal context
- theverge.com — Epic Games' response and background on the legal dispute
