Apple has applied to the UK Court of Appeal to challenge a landmark ruling that ordered the company to pay about $1.9 billion to millions of British consumers, after a tribunal found it had overcharged users through its App Store for nearly a decade. The decision, delivered in October, 2025, concluded that Apple levied excessive commissions, often up to 30%, on apps and in-app purchases between 2015 and 2024, breaching competition law.
The case was brought on behalf of roughly 36 million UK customers by academic Dr. Rachael Kent, who described the outcome as a turning point in consumer action against major technology platforms. If the appeal fails, eligible consumers could receive compensation for past purchases.
The ruling forms part of a broader set of collective actions in the UK seeking more than $7.6 billion in combined damages from Apple and Google, covering alleged overcharging of consumers and developers. Kent said, “It’s definitely a tipping point,” adding that people are increasingly aware of the financial impact of digital services.
Apple said it strongly disagrees with the tribunal’s findings, arguing the decision misjudged a “thriving and competitive app economy,” and noted that most apps are subject to a 15% commission. A Google spokesperson said, “We’ll defend these cases vigorously.” Several related claims, including actions by developers and consumer groups, are expected to proceed to trial in 2026.
