The US Supreme Court has wrapped up the legal clash between Apple and Epic, declining appeals in their prolonged dispute over iOS store policies. Epic CEO Tim Sweeney expressed disappointment, stating the setback in opening up iOS to other stores and payments is unfortunate for developers.

Despite Epic losing the overall battle, it secured a victory in challenging Apple’s anti-steering rule. Now, apps can guide users to non-iOS payment methods. However, Apple, adhering to the court’s decision, still imposes a 27% commission on such purchases, prompting criticism from Sweeney for hindering price competition and creating user inconvenience.

Sweeney announced Epic’s intention to contest Apple’s compliance plan, emphasizing the need for fairness. The legal saga began in 2020, with Epic alleging Apple’s App Store practices constituted an illegal monopoly. Although the central antitrust claims were dismissed in 2021, Apple was found in breach of competition law regarding payment system restrictions.

While this chapter concludes in the US, a new EU law set for March will compel Apple to allow downloads from sources outside the App Store. Simultaneously, the EU pursues an antitrust case against Apple, focusing on the restriction preventing developers from directing users to alternative payment methods. The ongoing conflict between the two tech giants continues, extending beyond US borders.