A UK tribunal has denied Apple's request to dismiss a class action lawsuit regarding the App Store's controversial 30% fee, allowing the legal challenge to move forward. The lawsuit, initiated in July 2023 by 1,566 UK-based developers, accuses Apple of imposing excessive fees and abusing its monopoly position in the marketplace.
In January 2024, Apple sought to have the case dismissed, arguing that the majority of developers do not pay the 30% fee, as 85% of them incur no charges to be on the App Store. The company also claimed that the UK tribunal should not hear claims regarding purchases made outside the UK.
However, the Competition Appeal Tribunal, led by Judge Andrew Lenon, has ruled that the lawsuit can proceed. In his written decision, Judge Lenon stated there is a realistic prospect of proving that Apple's practice of charging UK-based developers a 30% commission for transactions on non-UK storefronts constitutes conduct implemented within the UK.
This ruling allows the class action to potentially challenge Apple's right to levy a 30% fee on any app purchases, regardless of where they occur. The next steps in the case have not yet been scheduled.
