Apple appeal against App Store third party payment options denied by courts

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In a recent court decision, Apple was unsuccessful in its attempt to prolong complying with orders regarding third-party payment options within iOS App Store apps. The company had appealed to postpone compliance, but the courts found that Apple lacked justification for delaying action. This victory has been celebrated by Tim Sweeney of Epic Games as a step towards loosening Apple’s control over its app marketplace.

Earlier this week, Apple’s appeal was denied in a court filing at the United States 9th Circuit Court of Appeals. In response to their appeals, the judges stated that “Apple must prove that the situation warrants our discretionary action. After considering all relevant factors, we are not convinced that a delay (stay) is suitable.

Tim Sweeney viewed this decision as another triumph for Epic Games, a company that’s been locked in a legal struggle with Apple due to their stringent control and the practice of taking a portion of sales from App Store transactions.

I’m elated to share the news that my beloved Apple has been denied a stay by the 9th Circuit Court, which means we’ve finally put an end to the years-long national turmoil over the so-called “Apple tax”. Here’s hoping next week’s WWDC event will be a grand Apple-led celebration of the hard-earned freedom that developers and users have long yearned for.

— Tim Sweeney (@TimSweeneyEpic) June 4, 2025

According to Sweeney, the 9th Circuit Court did not grant an extension for Apple. This marks the end of the ‘Apple Tax’ saga that has plagued our nation. Next week’s WWDC could be a grand, Apple-led celebration of liberty, a fitting tribute to developers and users who have long awaited it.

As a dedicated gamer, I can’t help but feel a sense of solidarity with Epic Games in their ongoing legal battle against Apple. This conflict has been going on for quite some time now, and it includes standing up for the return of Fortnite to iOS and crafting a mobile version of the Epic Games Store tailored for this platform. Each move they make seems to be another small victory in their quest to challenge what Tim Sweeney calls the monopoly over mobile app distribution. It’s an inspiring fight for fairness, and I can’t wait to see how it unfolds!

Refusing appeals means Apple must act on commands that require them to accommodate third-party payment options within apps. Keep an eye out for more developments in this ongoing saga between Apple and Epic Games.

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2025-06-06 21:57