“Fortnite” video game developer Epic Games’ petition against Apple’s noncompliance with a court-ordered injunction controlling payments in its lucrative App Store has been joined by Meta Platforms, Microsoft, Elon Musk’s X, and Match Group.
The tech companies said that by making it impossible for customers to find less expensive ways to pay for digital material, Apple was in “clear violation” of the Sept. 2021 order. These companies created some of the most well-known apps in the App Store.
Apple declined to comment on the allegation in particular. The federal court in Oakland, California received the allegation during filing.
It referenced its January 16th declaration, in which it said it will protect “the integrity of Apple’s ecosystem” and customers while ensuring developers do not receive special treatment, and that it had fully complied with the order.
Epic filed a lawsuit against Apple in 2020, claiming that the business had violated antitrust laws by requiring users to download apps through the App Store and by taking up to 30% of developer sales revenue.
The order compelled Apple to allow developers to include buttons and links that directed consumers to alternative payment options.
Apple has until April 3rd to reply to Epic’s submission in writing. The corporation is headquartered in Cary, North Carolina; Epic is based in Cupertino, California.
The lawsuit is No. 20-05640, U.S. District Court, Northern District of California, v. Epic Games Inc. v. Apple Inc.
