Apple(US:AAPL) Feng Huang Wang·2025-10-22 05:45Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the ongoing challenges posed by Apple's 30% commission on virtual goods transactions in China, referred to as the "Apple Tax," and highlights the efforts of consumers and legal representatives to combat this policy through both civil lawsuits and administrative complaints [1][2][3]. Group 1: Apple's Market Practices - Apple imposes a 30% commission on virtual goods transactions, which has led to significant disparities in consumer benefits between iOS and Android users in China [1][16]. - The term "Apple Tax" reflects the additional costs borne by consumers, as evidenced by the example where iOS users receive fewer virtual goods for the same amount of money compared to Android users [1][16]. - The article notes that Apple's practices have faced legal challenges globally, with various regions, including the US and EU, taking steps to force Apple to open up payment systems and reduce commissions [1][4][18]. Group 2: Legal Actions and Consumer Advocacy - A landmark civil lawsuit against Apple in China, initiated by lawyer Wang Qiongfei, recognized Apple's market dominance but did not find evidence of abuse of that dominance, leading to an appeal currently under review by the Supreme People's Court [1][8]. - Wang and 55 consumers have filed an administrative complaint with the State Administration for Market Regulation, marking the first collective challenge against the "Apple Tax" in China [1][3][12]. - The article emphasizes the high costs and low returns of consumer rights protection in China compared to the collective lawsuit system in the US, which has motivated consumers to pursue legal action out of a sense of fairness rather than financial gain [2][12]. Group 3: Global Context and Regulatory Environment - The article highlights that while Apple has made concessions in other markets due to legal pressures, it has not adjusted its policies in China, which raises questions about the company's respect for Chinese consumer rights [2][18]. - Wang argues that Apple's reluctance to change its practices in China stems from a perceived arrogance and a focus on maximizing its commercial interests without regard for local consumer rights [5][7][18]. - The article suggests that successful legal and administrative actions in China could lead to significant changes in Apple's pricing and payment policies, benefiting consumers and potentially stimulating digital consumption in the Chinese market [16][18].