UK tribunal rules Apple liable for £1.5bn in damages
Britain’s Competition Appeal Tribunal ruled that Apple must pay damages totaling 1.5 billion pounds after finding the company abused its market position by charging excessive app store fees. The decision marks the first successful collective action since lawmakers introduced the regime a decade ago under consumer protection legislation.
Dr. Rachael Kent from King’s College London brought the claim representing 36 million device users with backing from litigation funder Vannin Capital. Hausfeld partner Lesley Hannah led the legal team that proved Apple charged unfair 30 percent fees over 10 years.
The tribunal rejected Apple’s defense that a centralized system benefits justified the restrictions. Judges determined that competition would better serve consumers by offering preferred prices and formats.
Apple plans to appeal the nearly 400-page ruling delivered on Thursday, Oct. 23. The company disputes findings about the competitive app marketplace, while Kent praised the verdict as proof that Britain’s legal framework holds powerful corporations accountable regardless of their size or resources.
