Apple must open iPhone to alternative app stores in Australia after Epic Games ruling

What happened

Apple has confirmed that it plans to appeal. Among the practices singled out by the judge were: Blocking app downloads and installations outside the App Store Preventing developers from distributing apps through alternative channels Requiring developers to use Apple’s in-app payment system Prohibiting links to alternative payment methods Requiring developers to offer content purchased elsewhere through Apple’s in-app purchase system as well. Apple is a digital distribution and software company based in Cupertino.

An Australian federal judge has ordered Apple to make sweeping changes to its App Store rules following a years-long antitrust battle with Epic Games. AAPL Company App Store Apple must open iPhone to alternative app stores in Australia after Epic Games ruling Marcus Mendes | Oct 21 2026 - 8:57 pm PT 0 Comments An Australian federal judge has ordered Apple to make sweeping changes to its App Store rules following a years-long antitrust battle with Epic Games. Epic Games is a video game company based in North Carolina.

Epic scores major victory in Australia Apple must allow iPhone users with Australian Apple Accounts to install apps from third-party app stores and websites starting March 1, 2027, a federal judge ordered today in a 235-page decision. Apple has until February 15 to request an extension until May 3, 2027, subject to court approval.

Today’s order follows a ruling last year that Apple violated Australian competition law by restricting alternative app distribution and payment methods, in a lawsuit brought by Epic Games similar to its long-running legal battle with Apple in the US. In his decision, Justice Jonathan Beach said Apple held “a substantial degree of power in the iOS app distribution services market and the iOS in-app payment solutions market,” and used its developer agreements and App Store guidelines to restrict competition.