Millions in UK could claim share of £3B after Apple case given green light
A UK competition tribunal has approved a collective claim against Apple, accusing it of overcharging millions of customers by up to £3 billion through its App Store commission fees. The case, brought by academics on behalf of UK iPhone and iPad users, can now proceed to a full trial.
Background
- A UK competition tribunal has given the go-ahead for a collective lawsuit against Apple, alleging the company overcharged nearly 40 million UK iPhone and iPad users via its App Store commission (the "Apple tax": a 30% cut on digital purchases).
- The case, backed by £3 billion in potential damages, was brought by Dr. Rachael Kent, an academic at King's College London. It claims Apple's monopoly over iOS app distribution forced developers to pass the commission cost to consumers, resulting in higher prices for apps and in-app purchases.
- The lawsuit is an "opt-out" collective action under UK law — meaning all affected users are automatically included unless they actively opt out, which could make it one of the largest consumer claims in UK legal history.
- Apple contests the claim, arguing the commission is standard in digital marketplaces and that 85% of apps are free; the company says it will continue to defend itself.