Apple(US:AAPL) Hu Xiu·2025-10-20 13:45Core Viewpoint - A group of 55 Chinese consumers has submitted a complaint to the State Administration for Market Regulation, accusing Apple Inc. of abusing its market dominance in China through various monopolistic practices that harm consumer rights [1][2]. Group 1: Allegations Against Apple - The complaint alleges that Apple forces Chinese consumers to use its In-App Purchase (IAP) system for digital goods and services, prohibits developers from directing consumers to alternative payment methods, and imposes unfairly high commissions of up to 30% [5][7]. - The core demands include an investigation into Apple's alleged illegal activities and a mandate to allow third-party payment channels and app stores in China [3][4]. Group 2: Specific Requests for Action - The consumers request that Apple be ordered to open third-party payment channels, allowing developers to guide consumers to external platforms without incurring any commission [8]. - They also demand that Apple permit access to iOS applications outside of the App Store, including third-party app stores and sideloading options, without charging any fees [9]. - Additionally, the complaint calls for a reduction in the commission rate for in-app purchases to be lower than the most favorable rates in other countries [10]. Group 3: Comparative Analysis - The complaint highlights that Chinese consumers face "country-specific discrimination," as they are unable to access third-party payment options and are subjected to the highest commission rates globally [11][13]. - It cites recent legal developments in the U.S. and EU, where courts have mandated Apple to provide payment options and reduce commission rates, contrasting this with the situation in China [12][14]. Group 4: Financial Impact on Consumers - In 2024, Chinese consumers are projected to pay $6.44 billion in "Apple tax," second only to the U.S. at $14.8 billion, and surpassing Europe at $4.8 billion [15][30]. - The complaint calculates that the "Apple tax" constitutes 10% of Apple's revenue in China, compared to 8.8% in the U.S. and 4.6% in Europe, indicating a heavier burden on Chinese consumers [15][30]. Group 5: Global Legal Actions - The complaint notes that over ten countries, including Japan, South Korea, and Australia, have initiated legal actions against Apple for similar monopolistic practices [18][31]. - Japan's Fair Trade Commission has announced plans to force Apple to open third-party transaction models by December 2025, marking a significant shift in the Asian market [19][31].