Apple ordered to open iPhone to alternative app stores in Australia

What happened

An Australian federal judge has ordered Apple to change its App Store rules after a years-long antitrust battle with Epic Games. Under the order, iPhone users with Australian Apple Accounts must be able to install apps from third-party app stores and websites starting March 1, 2027.

The 235-page decision sets a deadline for opening alternative app distribution, but allows Apple to seek more time. Apple has until February 15 to request an extension to May 3, 2027; any extension requires court approval.

The order follows a ruling last year that Apple violated Australian competition law by restricting alternative app distribution and payment methods. Epic Games brought the lawsuit, which parallels its long-running legal battle with Apple in the United States.

Why it matters

• Alternative distribution

  The order requires Apple to permit app installation routes beyond its App Store for iPhone users with Australian Apple Accounts.

• Epic’s return

  Eligible Epic Games apps have an immediate path back to the Australian App Store through written application and compliance with applicable developer rules.

What we know

The court also ordered Apple to allow Fortnite and other eligible Epic Games apps back onto the Australian App Store, provided they comply with applicable developer rules. That requirement takes effect immediately rather than at the March 2027 deadline, with Apple required to act after receiving a written application from Epic.

The ruling cited Apple’s actions against Epic Games in 2020: its refusal to allow Epic Direct Pay, the removal of Fortnite from the App Store and the subsequent termination of Epic’s developer account.

Justice Beach described Fortnite’s removal and the developer account termination as “a paradigm example of Apple’s enforcement of its restrictive terms” in contravention of section 46 of Australia’s Competition and Consumer Act 2010. That provision prohibits corporations with substantial market power from conduct whose purpose, effect or likely effect is to substantially lessen competition in that market.