What to know

  • Apple is required by court order to allow web links in the App Store.
  • This means developers can direct users to external websites for payments.
  • The decision follows a legal battle over Apple's App Store policies.
  • Apple's attempt to block the order was rejected by the court.

A court has ruled that Apple must continue to allow developers to include web links in their App Store apps. This decision means that app makers can direct users to external websites for payments and other services outside of Apple's own payment system.

The legal dispute began when developers and regulators challenged Apple's rules that restricted how apps could guide users to pay for content or services. Previously, Apple required that all digital purchases go through its own system, where it collects a commission.

Developers argued that these restrictions were unfair and limited their ability to offer alternative payment options. The court agreed with the developers and ordered Apple to permit web links in apps. Apple tried to stop this order from taking effect, but the court rejected the company's request.

This ruling is significant for both developers and users. Developers now have more freedom to communicate with their customers and offer different payment choices. Users may also benefit from more options and potentially lower prices, as developers can avoid Apple's commission fees.

The decision is part of a broader debate about how large technology companies manage their platforms and the rules they set for other businesses. For now, Apple must comply with the court's order and allow web links in the App Store.

Via: theverge.com