Apple’s reluctance to allow developers to utilize third-party payment services or redirect users away from the App Store is quite evident. A significant factor is the revenue generated from App Store commissions, which amounted to $10 billion in the US for 2024, according to Appfigures. This staggering sum highlights why Apple is resistant to changes that could threaten its income stream.

Year after year, Apple’s App Store commissions have seen consistent growth. Starting with approximately $4.76 billion in 2020, the figures climbed to $6.67 billion in 2021, $7.37 billion in 2022, and reached $8.76 billion in 2023. These numbers indicate a clear upward trajectory, suggesting that in 2025, Apple could potentially earn even more.

Notably, these statistics pertain only to the US market; globally, Appfigures estimates that Apple’s earnings from the App Store reached $91.3 billion in 2024. This financial success explains Apple’s defiance against a court ruling that instructed the company to halt its commission practices when developers opted for external payment systems. In spite of judicial mandates, Apple continued to collect commissions, showcasing its determination to maintain control over its revenue.

Critics argue that Apple exhibits significant greed in its operations, taking a roughly 30% cut from in-app purchases and subscriptions. While Apple offers a platform for developers to distribute their apps, it simultaneously restricts access to third-party app stores, thereby monopolizing app distribution on its devices. This has led to legal disputes, notably with companies like Epic Games, which challenged Apple’s fees after experiencing substantial success with its games.

Currently, Apple is appealing the court’s decision, but a growing number of developers—over 100,000—have filed a class action lawsuit against the company. They seek damages for the funds Apple withheld despite being instructed otherwise, illustrating the ongoing conflict over app distribution and revenue sharing.