Apple Faces China's Latest Antitrust Lawsuit Regarding App Store Commission

App Store faces a new lawsuit in China (photo: dock. unsplash)

JAKARTA Apple faces legal challenges in China regarding their App Store rules. This lawsuit was filed by the same party behind a similar case in 2021.

This latest case was filed on behalf of 55 iPhone and iPad users in China. Although filed on the same charge, namely antitrust practice, the regulatory basis is different from the previous few years.

The new lawsuit states that Apple maintains a monopoly on the distribution of iOS applications in China. Apple is accused of forcing consumers to buy digital goods exclusively through its In-App Purchase (IAP) system.

The plaintiffs also alluded to App Store rules in other countries. In the European Union and the US, Apple has allowed payment methods and alternative app stores, but Apple still hasn't implemented this in China.

Apple is also accused of limiting iOS application downloads only through the App Store. All of these complaints have been submitted to the State Administration for China's Market Regulation (SAMR).

Another thing that is being questioned in this lawsuit is Apple's practice of charging commissions of up to 30 percent on purchases made in the application. This is considered detrimental to developers and consumers.

In 2021, Apple managed to win in a similar lawsuit with Apple's cost decision not being 'much higher' than competitors. This decision was made by a high court in Shanghai.

According to the court, there is no evidence that the cost causes higher prices for consumers. Although previously Apple managed to win the lawsuit, there is a possibility that Apple will lose the case this time.

Court decisions will also have an impact on Apple's future in China. The company may need to adjust their App Store practices on the Chinese market if they are proven to have antitrust practices.