Apple has been found in willful violation of a 2021 federal injunction

In a dramatic turn of events, Apple has been found in willful violation of a 2021 federal injunction, intensifying its legal battle with Epic Games. U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers ruled that Apple deliberately defied the court’s mandate to allow app developers to direct users to alternative payment methods outside the App Store, which traditionally garners a 30% commission from in-app purchases. The court criticized Apple’s implementation of a 27% fee on external transactions and the use of deterrent tactics, including “scare screens,” to dissuade users from opting for alternative payment options. These actions were deemed as attempts to circumvent the court’s order.

Judge Rogers didn’t mince words, accusing Apple of “willful noncompliance” and referring the matter to federal prosecutors for potential criminal contempt charges. The judge also highlighted that Apple’s Vice President of Finance, Alex Roman, lied under oath regarding the timing and rationale behind the 27% commission on external purchases.

As a consequence, Apple is now prohibited from collecting commissions on external purchases and must reimburse Epic Games’ legal fees. The ruling also paves the way for Epic Games to reintroduce Fortnite to the U.S. iOS App Store, marking a significant victory for developers advocating for more autonomy in digital commerce.

While Apple plans to appeal the decision, the court’s firm stance signals a potential shift in the tech giant’s App Store policies and could have broader implications for digital marketplaces. Analysts suggest that although the financial impact on Apple may be manageable in the short term, the ruling could set a precedent affecting its long-term revenue model