Apple has entered the Indian market as the next region in which it might face an antitrust lawsuit as a result of its request that developers utilize its in-app payments service. For payment-related communications, Apple has previously barred app developers from contacting users through email.
App developers can offer their services directly through Apple’s App Store; however, for any in-app purchases made within applications that are downloaded through the App Store, developers must utilize Apple’s iOS payment system and pay Apple a charge ranging from 15 to 30 percent of total sales.
In the United States, Apple has been sued by Epic Games, a video game developer, for engaging in this behavior.
Google, which charges a fee to developers and gets a share of in-app purchases made by users, has also been accused of engaging in monopolistic tactics. Google declined to comment.
As the debate over Apple and Google’s App Store practices continues to escalate, the two firms are becoming more concerned about appeasing developers and regulators.
Apple conceded applications like Netflix and others in Japan just a day ago, as the company braces itself for legal, regulatory, and legislative challenges to its Apple Store policies in the nation.
According to Reuters, the charges are identical to those made against Apple in the European Union, citing sources and documents that have been obtained.
According to the antitrust lawsuit in India, Apple’s up to 30 percent charge harms competition by raising prices for all parties involved – consumers and app developers – by boosting expenses for both parties. It goes on to say that the charge works as a deterrent to new entrants into the market.
The story goes on to say that the Competition Commission of India (CCI) would evaluate the situation in the coming weeks and may initiate probes.
However, according to Reuters, citing a source familiar with the situation, the CCI may even postpone the case if it determines that it has no validity.
Particularly noteworthy is that the complaint is Together We Fight Society, a non-profit organization headquartered in Rajasthan that has stated to Reuters that it is taking action to safeguard the interests of consumers and entrepreneurs in India.
India Today Tech has reached out to Apple for comment, and we will update this article as soon as we receive a response from the tech giant.
Apple recently stated that beginning in the first quarter of next year, it will allow developers of reader applications throughout the world to link to an external website to sign up or maintain an account. In a statement, the Japan Fair Trade Commission said the announcement came as a result of the conclusion of an inquiry (JFTC).
The company said in a statement last week that it would allow app developers to reach out to users through email or other contact channels to notify them of another payment option that would not incur Apple’s charge reduction. As part of its overall announcement, the firm said it would establish a $100 million fund to make payments to small app developers.
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