Apple had tried unsuccessfully to have a nearly $1 billion lawsuit filed in the U.K. brought by 1,500 British developers be dismissed. A British court ruled earlier today that the case can be brought and will go to trial, although that step is likely not to take place until next year.
The lawsuit alleges that Apple charges developers unfair commissions of up to 30% when purchasing apps and other content. The plaintiffs seek damages alleging that Apple abused its dominant position in the market for distributing apps on iPhones and other Apple devices.
Interestingly, Apple’s lawyers argued at a hearing in January that developers could not bring claims in the UK unless they were charged for purchases made through the UK App Store. The judge disagreed, saying “Apple’s charging of exorbitant commissions to UK app developers for non-UK store transactions does constitute conduct committed in the UK”.
This is certainly not the first time Apple has faced such accusations. In the EU, the company is now forced to allow alternative app stores and allow developers to charge users outside the app store if they choose.
source