Apple is facing further legal challenges in China. A law firm has filed a new antitrust complaint against the company, alleging that Apple is abusing its control over the distribution of iOS apps and payment services in the App Store. The complaint was filed with the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) on behalf of 55 Chinese iPhone and iPad users. This marks the next stage of a dispute that has been ongoing for several years and was ultimately defeated in a previous civil lawsuit.
Apple maintains a strict system worldwide when it comes to app distribution and payment. The App Store is central to the iOS ecosystem and one of Apple's most important sources of revenue. However, it is precisely this closed structure that repeatedly leads to legal disputes. In China, pressure is now increasing, as users and lawyers see a potential distortion of competition. The new complaint attempts to push the existing boundaries of regulation and persuade Apple to open up its App Store model.
New complaint against Apple
The current antitrust complaint originates from the law firm of attorney Wang Qiongfei, who previously represented plaintiff Jin Xin in a similar case in 2021. At that time, Jin Xin accused Apple of maintaining a monopoly over the distribution of iOS apps and of hampering competition with high fees. The lawsuit demanded that Apple completely abolish its App Store commissions and pay damages.
The Shanghai Civil Court dismissed the lawsuit in 2024. Nevertheless, the allegation persisted that Apple was closing the iOS app market in China and preventing the use of alternative payment systems. Wang then decided to reopen the case through administrative channels.
Focus on market regulation instead of civil law
Unlike the previous proceedings, the new complaint does not seek a civil judgment, but rather the enforcement of existing regulations by the market regulator SAMR. The lawyers argue that Apple continues to maintain a monopoly through the App Store and forces app developers to distribute exclusively through the company's platform. Furthermore, Apple restricts the use of external payment systems and continues to charge commissions of up to 30 percent on digital transactions.
The complaint also points to legal developments in other regions. In the European Union, Apple has already had to make changes due to the Digital Markets Act (DMA). Alternative app stores and external payment options are now permitted there. A court in the US has also ruled that Apple must allow developers to set external payment links.
China is the exception here. Despite these international adjustments, Apple continues to operate a completely closed app ecosystem there. According to the complaint, this unequal treatment of Chinese users is a central issue in the proceedings.
Appeal and possible consequences for Apple
In parallel with the administrative appeal, Wang has filed an appeal with China's Supreme People's Court against the dismissal of the original lawsuit. The court heard the arguments in December, but a decision is still pending. Wang expects the current appeal to the SAMR to progress more quickly than the appeal in the civil case.
If the market regulator follows through on the allegations of abuse, this could have significant consequences for Apple. An official investigation could not only lead to adjustments to the App Store system in China, but also set new standards for digital platforms in the country.
Apple's growing regulatory challenges
Apple is under increasing pressure worldwide to adapt its business practices in the App Store. Structural changes have already been implemented in the European Union and the United States to strengthen competition. China is one of Apple's largest markets, so any intervention by the authorities would have far-reaching consequences.
The case demonstrates that the App Store's globally successful business model must adapt to a new regulatory reality. What was once considered a secure, controlled system for quality and security is now being scrutinized by courts and authorities for monopoly structures.
Regulation meets power: Apple's critical moment in China
Apple finds itself in a delicate situation in China. The company is facing accusations that its app store model is too restrictive and thus hindering competition. The new complaint filed with the SAMR could be a turning point—not only for Apple, but also for the regulation of digital markets in China.
While restrictions have already been eased in Europe and the US, Apple continues to maintain its closed system in China. Whether this will remain sustainable depends on the decision of the market regulator and the Supreme People's Court. The only thing that is certain is that control over the App Store, once a strength of Apple, is increasingly becoming a global challenge. (Image: Shutterstock / Jess Rodriguez)
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