Court Forces Apple to Allow Third-Party App Store Payments

Federal Court Ruling Forces Apple to Open App Store Payments, Potentially Impacting Company’s Revenue by 2%

Key Facts

• The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals rejected Apple’s bid to delay implementing third-party payment links in its App Store
• JPMorgan projects up to 5% margin increases for app developers and a potential 200 basis point moderation in Apple’s Services revenue
• Morgan Stanley data shows 28% of U.S. iPhone users may bypass Apple’s payment system, affecting 2% of Apple’s EPS

Introduction

A significant shift in App Store economics looms as the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals denied Apple’s emergency request to postpone implementing third-party payment options. This ruling, stemming from Apple’s legal battle with Epic Games, could reshape the future of app distribution and revenue models, according to Investing.com.

Key Developments

The court’s decision prevents Apple from maintaining exclusive control over in-app payments and its commission structure of up to 30%. Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers found Apple in contempt of an earlier injunction, citing violations including the imposition of a 27% fee on external transactions and restrictions on payment link placement within apps.

App developers can now offer alternative payment methods without fees, compared to the previous 27% commission requirement. This change particularly benefits companies like Match Group, Bumble, Roblox, and Duolingo, while potentially improving user acquisition for Spotify, Amazon Kindle, and Epic Games.

Market Impact

Financial analysts project varied implications across the industry. JPMorgan anticipates pressure on Apple’s Services revenue, with potential growth moderation of up to 200 basis points. This translates to a 2-3% earnings per share impact.

Morgan Stanley’s research reveals continued growth in U.S. App Store revenue, showing 10% year-over-year increases post-injunction. However, their surveys suggest a significant portion of iPhone users may opt for alternative payment methods.

Strategic Insights

The ruling challenges Apple’s “walled garden” approach and could fundamentally alter its business model. The App Store, a crucial component of Apple’s Services segment, faces increased scrutiny as global regulators, including the EU’s Digital Markets Act, push for more open digital marketplaces.

Expert Opinions and Data

Epic Games founder Tim Sweeney celebrated the ruling as the end of the “Apple tax.” Financial analysts emphasize the broader implications, with the U.S. App Store generating approximately $7 billion, representing 6% of Apple’s EPS.

Apple maintains its position against the ruling, stating through a spokesperson: “We are disappointed with the decision not to stay the district court’s order, and we’ll continue to argue our case during the appeals process. Our goal is to ensure the App Store remains an incredible opportunity for developers and a safe and trusted experience for our users.”

Conclusion

The court’s decision marks a pivotal moment in app distribution economics. As Apple navigates this mandatory shift toward more open payment systems, the ruling’s effects ripple through the entire digital marketplace ecosystem, affecting developers, consumers, and platform providers alike.