Apple’s dominance over iOS app distribution has come under renewed scrutiny as Apple now faces App Store challenges in China, too. A Beijing-based law firm has filed an antitrust complaint alleging that Apple unfairly controls app distribution and payment systems within the Chinese market — reigniting a legal dispute that has been brewing for years.
New Antitrust Complaint Targets Apple’s App Store Practices
According to the complaint, submitted to the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR), Apple maintains a monopoly over app distribution on iPhones and iPads. The case, representing 55 Chinese users, argues that Apple restricts developers from offering third-party payment options and charges commissions of up to 30% on digital transactions.
These claims echo a previous lawsuit from 2021 led by plaintiff Jin Xin, represented by the same attorney, Wang Qiongfei. That case was dismissed in 2024 by a Shanghai court, but the new filing seeks action from regulators instead of pursuing civil judgment.
China Joins Growing Global Pressure On Apple
What makes this complaint different is its comparative argument. Wang’s filing highlights that Apple has already made concessions in other markets. For example, under the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), Apple now allows alternative payment options and sideloading. Similarly, U.S. courts have required the company to permit external payment links in certain cases.
The new argument suggests that while Apple has complied with regulatory demands elsewhere, its App Store in China remains closed and restrictive, which could put it at odds with Chinese antitrust laws.
Apple’s App Store Fees Under Fire
At the heart of the complaint is Apple’s 30% commission on digital transactions — a fee structure that has faced criticism globally. Developers argue that this cuts into their profits and limits consumer choice. Critics in China claim the same, saying Apple’s control stifles local innovation and unfairly disadvantages app developers who want to offer cheaper payment alternatives.
If regulators decide to act, the outcome could reshape Apple’s operations in one of its most important markets.
Ongoing Legal Battle And Next Steps
Lawyer Wang Qiongfei believes this regulatory complaint may progress faster than the civil lawsuit that was previously dismissed. Meanwhile, he is appealing that 2024 decision to China’s Supreme People’s Court, which has already heard arguments but has not yet issued a ruling.
While Apple has not yet commented on the new complaint, the company has consistently defended its App Store policies as essential for maintaining privacy, security, and user trust.
What This Means For Apple In China
China remains a crucial market for Apple, not just for iPhone sales but also for its App Store ecosystem. The country’s regulators have recently shown a stronger stance against tech monopolies, making this new case particularly significant.
If the complaint gains traction, Apple could face policy changes, fines, or forced compliance with new digital payment rules, mirroring its adjustments in the EU.
For now, Apple now faces App Store challenges in China, too, and the outcome could set a precedent for how global tech giants operate under China’s tightening digital economy regulations.
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