Tech Giants Unite to Support Epic's Claim Against Apple

A group of prominent tech companies, including Microsoft, Meta, X, and Match, have expressed their support for Epic's argument that Apple is not adhering to a court order issued after the 2021 antitrust trial. The companies have jointly filed an amicus brief, stating that Apple's current process for implementing in-app links to external payment systems is 'commercially unusable' and 'entirely useless.' The brief argues that Apple's requirements, such as the need for a special entitlement and the imposition of a 27% commission, 'clearly violate' the court's orders. The companies contend that these restrictions render alternative payment options impractical for developers and inaccessible to consumers, thereby undermining the spirit of the injunction. Epic had previously argued that Apple's anti-steering practices, which prevented developers from directing users to alternative payment options, were unlawful. The judge in the 2021 antitrust trial ruled in favor of Epic on this point, ordering Apple to cease its anti-steering practices. However, Apple claims to have 'fully complied' with the injunction, citing the need to protect user privacy and security. The issue will be addressed at a hearing on April 30, with Apple set to file a response prior to the hearing.