Apple’s emergency request to pause a court order enforcing new compliance rules for the App Store was denied by the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, allowing the changes to take effect while the company continues its appeal. The court’s decision to reject Apple’s motion means the compliance requirements, which include reducing its 27% fee on out-of-app transactions, remain in place for now. This ruling is a critical development in the ongoing antitrust case against Apple, which has drawn significant attention from both developers and consumers. Apple had argued that the ruling would block the company from exercising control over core aspects of its business operations, but the appeals court found the motion lacking in merit.
The App Store has long been a central part of Apple’s ecosystem, and the court’s decision effectively means the company must now adjust its current practices to comply with the ruling. The new rules, enforced by U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers, require Apple to allow developers to direct users to external payment options, a change that could significantly impact the company’s revenue streams. Despite the setback, Apple reiterated its stance, stating it is disappointed with the decision and will continue to argue its case during the appeals process. The company’s statement emphasized its commitment to ensuring the App Store remains an opportunity for developers and a safe experience for users.
Industry analysts suggest that the ruling could have major financial implications for Apple, as it may lead to a reduction in the company’s transaction fees and possibly affect its overall revenue from the App Store. The appeals court’s decision not to grant a stay on the order means Apple must now comply with the changes while its legal battle continues. This outcome underscores the growing pressure on tech giants to adhere to antitrust regulations and provide more competitive landscapes for developers and consumers. As the case moves forward, the impact on Apple’s business model and the broader technology industry will likely be a key area of focus.