“There is no legitimate pro-competitive reason for excessive profits of this scale,” Kent’s lawyers argued in court documents, accusing Apple of leveraging its dominance to generate “exorbitant profits.”
Apple’s Defense: Competition and Market Scope
Apple counters that Kent’s claims rely on an overly narrow market definition focused solely on iOS apps. The company also argues it faces robust competition from other mobile device makers, which limits its ability to dictate terms.
“Developers do not pass on reductions in commission rates to iOS device users,” Apple said in court filings, adding that consumers have suffered no actual financial loss.
A Landmark Test Case
Kent’s claim is the first of several collective actions targeting tech giants at the CAT, with others lodged against companies such as Meta and Google. These cases, collectively seeking billions in damages, allege anti-competitive practices and exploitation of market power.
The Apple lawsuit, expected to last seven weeks, is seen as a bellwether for future claims against major tech companies.
Legal Teams Representing Both Sides
Kent is represented by a team from Brick Court Chambers, Monckton Chambers, and Hausfeld LLP. Apple is defended by attorneys from Gibson Dunn & Crutcher LLP, alongside barristers from Brick Court Chambers and Blackstone Chambers.
