Apple commission moves + ExternalPurchase, Ninth Circuit/SCOTUS escalation, Japan alt store, global regs & EU antitrust
Key Questions
What was the Ninth Circuit's recent decision in the Apple-Epic case?
In March, the Ninth Circuit denied Apple's request for a rehearing. This upheld prior rulings on Apple's App Store commissions and anti-steering obligations.
Has Apple petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court in its dispute with Epic Games?
Yes, Apple filed a petition to the Supreme Court in April 2026 challenging the 27% commission on external purchases. The Court granted a quick stay, pausing enforcement of related remedies.
How did Epic Games respond to Apple's Supreme Court petition and stay request?
Epic Games filed a motion accusing Apple of stalling the case to continue profiting from commissions. Epic argued the stay would cause considerable harm to developers by delaying anti-steering remedies.
What does Apple's Supreme Court petition focus on?
The petition seeks review of the Ninth Circuit's ruling allowing Apple to charge a 27% commission on external purchases made after apps link to outside payment options. It aims to clarify App Store fee structures amid ongoing legal battles.
What are ExternalPurchase webshops in relation to Apple's App Store changes?
ExternalPurchase webshops are Apple's implementation allowing developers to direct users to external payment sites via links. This follows court-ordered anti-steering adjustments but includes a 27% fee on those transactions.
What iOS updates are mentioned in connection to Apple's commission policies?
iOS 26.4 introduces features related to external purchases, including a Games app and ghost updates with reduced opacity. These changes aim to comply with court rulings while maintaining commission structures.
What is happening with alternative app stores in Japan?
Aptoide is launching an alternative app store in Japan, capitalizing on regulatory pressures. This aligns with global pushes for openness in iOS app distribution.
What global regulatory actions are impacting Apple?
The EU imposed a €500M fine under the DMA, the UK issued a fine, and over 600 developers protested Apple's practices. These escalate antitrust scrutiny alongside U.S. court battles.
Ninth Circuit denies rehearing (Mar); Apple SCOTUS petition (Apr 2026) on 27% external fees granted quick stay—Epic responds as delay harming devs, pauses remedies/anti-steering. ExternalPurchase webshops; iOS 26.4; Games app; ghost updates opacity. Aptoide Japan; DMA €500M; UK fine; 600+ protest.