Apple external payments rollout/enforcement, SCOTUS & Ninth Circuit updates; Brazil CADE
Key Questions
What was the outcome of the Supreme Court decision on Apple’s stay request?
On May 28, the Supreme Court denied Apple’s request for a stay in the Epic case. This allows the Ninth Circuit’s ruling on 27% commissions and external links to proceed.
Where is Fortnite now available on the iOS App Store?
Fortnite is live worldwide on the iOS App Store except in Australia as of May 19, 2026. Epic described the return as the “beginning of the end” for Apple’s fees.
What timeline applies to Apple’s external payment rollout?
The May 15 timeline enables web checkout and external links, with iOS 26.5 adding an alternative marketplace picker in Brazil. Epic and Apple continue to schedule further legal meetings.
What is the status of the EU DMA appeal involving Apple?
Apple faces an EU €500M DMA appeal related to its App Store steering rules. The European Commission has opened non-compliance investigations into Alphabet and similar practices.
How does the Ninth Circuit ruling affect Apple’s commissions?
The Ninth Circuit affirmed that Apple must allow 27% commissions on external payments and permit anti-steering links. This builds on the 2021 ruling favoring developers on steering rules.
What new iOS setting was added for Brazil users?
iOS 26.5 introduces an “App Installation” setting under Settings > Apps, allowing Brazilian users to choose alternative app marketplaces. This complies with local regulatory requirements.
Why is Fortnite still unavailable in Australia?
Epic stated it cannot return under an illegal payment arrangement and is awaiting a court order to compel Apple’s compliance in Australia. The app is live in nearly all other regions.
What are the key takeaways from the Apple-Epic legal battle?
The battle centers on anti-steering rules, commissions, and external payments, with Fortnite’s global return marking a partial win for developers. Ongoing appeals and scheduled meetings indicate the saga continues.
SCOTUS May 28 denies Apple stay; Ninth Circuit affirms 27% commissions/external links; Fortnite now live worldwide on iOS App Store (Australia exception, May 19 2026); May 15 timeline; web checkout live; EU €500M DMA appeal. iOS 26.5 Brazil adds alt marketplace picker.