Judge questions Apple executive on compliance with order to expand iPhone payment options

The battle between Apple and the U.S. Justice Department over the tech giant’s app store practices continues to heat up as a federal judge questions whether Apple is intentionally making it difficult for consumers to use alternative payment options in iPhone apps.

Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers expressed skepticism during a hearing, suggesting that Apple may be setting up obstacles to discourage the use of other payment methods, despite a court order requiring the company to allow developers to display links to alternative payment options.

Apple’s app store generates billions of dollars annually through its commission system, which charges fees ranging from 15% to 30% on digital transactions. The company’s efforts to comply with the court order have come under scrutiny, with the judge questioning whether Apple’s actions are driven by a desire to protect its profits rather than promote consumer choice.

Apple executive Matthew Fischer defended the company’s practices, stating that they are aimed at protecting users from potential risks and ensuring a return on investment. However, the judge remained unconvinced, pointing out that Apple’s new commission structure on alternative payment options still seems to result in a significant profit for the company.

The ongoing legal battle has drawn attention from major players in the tech industry, with Epic Games leading the charge to push for more significant changes in Apple’s app store policies. The court hearings are set to continue, with Apple executive Phil Schiller expected to testify, as the fight over app store practices shows no signs of slowing down.