A critical ruling has been issued in the UK regarding the Apple App Store case. A London court has ruled that Apple has established a monopoly on App Store apps. This decision could cost the tech giant a record fine of approximately $2 billion.

Apple App Store case and court ruling

The London Competition Appeal Tribunal (CAT) found that Apple abused its dominant market position. The court stated that the company charged “excessive and unfair prices” to app developers between October 2015 and the end of 2020. This case marked a significant turning point in the case filed on behalf of millions of iPhone and iPad users.

According to the ruling, Apple deliberately suppressed competition in the app distribution market. In particular, the commission rates charged to developers, typically around 30%, were deemed unfair.

The case is estimated to be worth approximately $2 billion (£1.5 billion). The calculation of the compensation amount will be decided at a hearing next month. The calculation will take into account any excess commissions received from developers. The court also acknowledged that developers passed on 50 percent of this overpayment to consumers.

Apple wasn’t surprised by the decision and quickly announced it would appeal. The company called the court’s decision “a flawed perspective on the evolving and competitive app economy.” However, the court’s decision currently appears to be in Apple’s favor.

So, what are your thoughts on Apple’s App Store policies? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!