Kent’s experts estimate these fees cost U.K. App Store users up to £1.5 billion between October 2015 and November 2023. “Apple’s dominance is absolutely clear-cut,” Kent’s counsel, Mark Hoskins KC, told the tribunal, adding that Apple has “eliminated all other rivals” for app distribution to iOS users.
Apple Rebuts Claims of Consumer Harm
Apple disputes the claimants’ assertions, stating that developers do not pass on commission reductions to consumers. The company contends that Kent’s case relies on an overly narrow market definition that excludes competition from other mobile operating systems like Android. Apple also emphasized its intense competition with device makers like Samsung and Google, which it argues constrains its App Store conduct.
Apple maintains that its fees reflect the substantial investment required to maintain its platform, which enhances privacy, security, and overall user experience.
Broader Implications
The case marks a significant test for collective actions targeting Big Tech in the U.K., with potential ripple effects for similar claims against companies like Google and Meta. Apple also faces a separate lawsuit brought on behalf of app developers over its App Store commissions.
