Apple Abandons 30% Fee on External Links

It's another day in the ongoing Epic vs Apple saga, and the latest development might just be the most significant yet. Apple, the maker of iOS and iPhones, could soon be compelled to eliminate its controversial 30% commission on transactions made through external payment links outside the App Store.

What does this mean for consumers and developers? Simply put, Apple is facing a decisive loss in the original Epic vs Apple case, which began when Epic Games' CEO, Tim Sweeney, enabled direct in-app purchases for Fortnite at a discount, bypassing Apple's payment system. This move sparked a legal battle that continues to unfold.

Previously, Apple had to comply with rulings in the EU that required them to remove fees and restrictions on external links, but the US had been more favorable towards Apple. Now, however, the tide has turned. Apple is barred from:

• Charging fees on purchases made outside of apps
• Restricting how developers place or format external links
• Limiting the use of 'calls to action' that inform users of potential savings
• Excluding certain apps or developers
• Using 'scare screens' to interfere with consumer choice
• Anything other than neutral messaging when informing users about third-party sites

While Epic may have lost some smaller battles, it appears they are winning the war. Apple intends to appeal the ruling, but overturning it seems unlikely given the current judicial stance.

With the Epic Games Store for mobile already established on Android and iOS in the EU, and on Android in the US, the significance of the iOS App Store may diminish as these changes take effect.