Epic Games has filed another complaint against Apple , this time in the European Union. The video game company accused the well-known technology company of imposing a series of carefully designed restrictions that harm competition when it comes to app distribution and payment processes.
"Apple is using its control over the iOS to benefit itself while hindering competitors. Its behavior constitutes an abuse of its dominant position and violates EU competition laws," Epic Games said.
Epic Games said Apple's decision to ban its popular game, Fortnite, from the iOS platform hurt the company. It also said Apple created its own service , Apple Arcade, but prohibits Epic Games from doing the same.
"Consumers have the right to install apps from sources of their choice, and developers have the right to compete in a fair marketplace. We will not stand idly by and allow Apple to exploit its platform dominance," Epic Games founder and CEO Tim Sweeney.
Tim Sweeney stressed that this situation is bad for both developers and consumers. Consumers are forced to pay a high price for games and apps due to the complete lack of competition between stores. As for developers, their work depends on Apple's discretion as to who is allowed on the iOS platform and under what conditions.
Before this latest complaint in the European Union, Epic Games had already initiated legal proceedings against Apple in Australia, the US and the UK.
Epic Games said it is not seeking damages from Apple. Instead, it is asking the European Commission to “address Apple’s anti-competitive behavior by imposing timely and effective remedies.”
The standoff between Epic Games and Apple began six months ago, when Apple and Google banned Fortnite from their app stores. The companies made the decision after Epic Games implemented an in-app payment system for the game to bypass paying a commission in stores.
Then, Epic Games launched lawsuits against Apple and Google , accusing them of anti-competitive practices.
According to a statement at the time, the gaming company said that Apple has become what it once accused: "The giant that seeks to control markets, exclude competition and suppress innovation."
In the months that followed, Epic Games filed lawsuits in Australia and the United Kingdom against Apple. In both cases, Epic said it was expanding its fight to make digital platforms fairer for consumers and developers.
Source: ZDNet
