A group of Chinese consumers has filed an antitrust complaint against Apple, accusing the company of abusing its control over the App Store in China. They claim Apple’s strict rules and high commissions limit choice and hurt both users and app developers.
According to the complaint, Apple blocks third-party payment options inside apps and forces developers to use its own in-app purchase system. The group argues this practice raises costs, restricts fair competition, and violates China’s anti-monopoly laws.
The filing also challenges Apple’s 30% commission on digital purchases, which critics say is excessive. They want regulators to force Apple to open its platform and allow alternative payment methods.
Apple has faced similar legal pressure in other countries, including the U.S., EU, South Korea, and Japan. Some regions have already passed rules requiring more payment freedom in app stores. China is now being closely watched to see if it will follow the same path.
If Beijing regulators accept the case, it could become one of the most significant antitrust actions against Apple in China. It may also impact how global tech platforms operate in one of the world’s largest digital markets.
