Apple contests ruling
In response to a recent ruling, Apple issued a brief statement regarding its violation of the anti-steering injunction established in the Epic versus Apple case.
Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers determined that Apple knowingly breached an injunction that mandated the elimination of its anti-steering practices. While the company proposed a new set of rules, it included complex linking solutions and a hefty 27% commission.
Late Wednesday, Apple communicated to 9to5Mac that it disagrees with the ruling. The company intends to comply with the order but will also appeal.
“We strongly disagree with the decision. We will comply with the court’s order and we will appeal.”
This concise statement reflects Apple’s dissatisfaction with the verdict, and there’s potential for criminal contempt charges to arise.
Epic CEO Tim Sweeney believes that Apple is open to negotiating. He proposed a “peace proposal” that would involve Apple eliminating its commissions on payments made outside the App Store worldwide and its linking requirements globally.
Given Apple’s reaction to the ruling, a negotiation with Sweeney seems improbable, especially since there is little incentive for a deal with a company that is firmly opposed to the inclusion of the Epic Game Store on iPhones, which is likely to lead to further litigation.