Apple has proposed commissions of up to 15% on purchases made through links outside the App Store in the ongoing Epic Games case. The proposal comes after the Supreme Court declined to pause the lower-court proceedings while it reviews Apple’s separate contempt ruling.
The proposed rates would determine how much Apple could charge when developers direct users to alternative payment options rather than using Apple’s in-app purchase system. The structure would give different rates to different categories of apps and developers.
Apple Proposes Three Commission Rates
Apple’s filing outlines three main commission levels for U.S. developers:
- 15% for standard apps that are normally subject to Apple’s 30% in-app purchase commission
- 10% for apps participating in the Video Partner Program, News Partner Program, Mini Apps Partner Program, and for subscription renewals
- 5% for apps participating in Apple’s Small Business Program
Apple says it submitted supporting factual and expert evidence alongside the proposed rates. The company argues that the lower commissions would allow many developers to offer external purchasing options profitably while still compensating Apple for the technology, tools, and services it provides.
Apple also compared its proposed rates with commissions charged by competing app stores. It pointed to Google Play, Samsung Galaxy Store, and Amazon’s Android App Marketplace as examples of platforms that also charge fees when developers use external payment links.
According to Apple, Google Play charges a 20% standard rate, a 15% program rate, and a 10% rate for subscriptions. Apple also noted that Epic has previously agreed to those Google Play rates.
What Happens Next In The Epic Games Case
The proposal follows a series of attempts by Apple to delay the lower-court proceedings. Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers previously rejected Apple’s request to pause the process while the Supreme Court reviews whether Apple violated her injunction by charging a 27% commission on purchases made through external links.
Apple then asked the Supreme Court to intervene, but the Court declined to halt the proceedings. That left Apple with a deadline to submit its proposed fee structure while the Supreme Court’s review continues.
Apple maintains that the fee proceedings should still be paused until the Supreme Court rules on the contempt case. The company says it submitted the proposal solely to comply with the lower court’s instructions.
Epic Games will now have an opportunity to respond to Apple’s proposed commissions. Apple is also expected to submit its brief to the Supreme Court by September 14.
The proposed rates do not settle how much Apple will ultimately be allowed to charge. The lower court still has to consider the evidence and determine the appropriate commission, while the Supreme Court’s separate review could also affect the broader dispute over Apple’s App Store rules.
(via 9to5Mac)
