Apple(US:AAPL) Mei Ri Jing Ji Xin Wen·2025-05-01 13:04Core Viewpoint - The recent ruling in the Epic Games vs. Apple lawsuit prohibits Apple from charging fees on purchases made outside of its App Store, effectively breaking its control over in-app purchase channels and allowing developers and users to bypass Apple's payment system [1][2]. Group 1: Legal and Regulatory Changes - The court ruling mandates that Apple cannot impose any commission or fees on consumer purchases made outside of the app [1]. - Developers are now allowed to set up links for external purchases without restrictions on style or format [1]. - Apple must inform users with a neutral message when they are redirected to third-party websites, but cannot interfere with their choice to leave the app [1]. Group 2: Impact on Developers and Consumers - The ruling is expected to lower transaction costs for developers and consumers, as they can now avoid the "Apple tax," which ranges from 15% to 30% on in-app purchases [1][3]. - There is growing dissatisfaction among developers and consumers regarding the "Apple tax," particularly in China, where the rates are among the highest globally [3][4]. - The "Apple tax" has been a significant contributor to Apple's overall revenue, with the software services segment showing strong growth [4][5]. Group 3: Global Context and Reactions - The ruling may influence other markets, as consumers globally are hopeful for a reduction in the "Apple tax" [2][3]. - Other countries, including those in the EU, Japan, and South Korea, have initiated legislative challenges against Apple's practices regarding the "Apple tax" [4]. - The European Commission has recently fined Apple €500 million for restricting developers from directing users to alternative payment methods, marking a significant regulatory push against Apple's practices [4].