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Apple and Epic have been in a legal battle since August, when
the maker of the popular game launched its own in-app payment
system to circumvent what it called Apple's monopolistic
practices. Apple's App Store requires developers to use Apple's
payment system and pay a 30% commission.
Apple blocked Epic's ability to distribute updates or new apps
through the App Store, and Epic sued Apple alleging that its App
Store practices violate antitrust laws. The court allowed Apple
to block Epic from distributing new titles as the case plays
out, but the existing version of "Fortnite" still works, as does
Epic's payment system.
Apple had said it would allow "Fortnite" back into the store if
Epic removed the direct payment feature to comply with its
developer agreement. But Epic has refused, saying complying with
Apple's request would be "to collude with Apple to maintain
their monopoly over in-app payments on iOS."
Apple's filing on Tuesday asks for monetary damages for Epic's
payment system, seeking "restitution and disgorgement of all
earnings, profits, compensation, benefits, and other ill-gotten
gains obtained by Epic as a result of its conduct."
Apple did not specify how much money it was seeking over the
payment feature. The company also asked for damages for harm to
its reputation from frustrated "Fortnite" players and a public
relations campaign Epic launched against Apple, which included a
parody of Apple's "1984" television commercial and a playable
apple-headed character called "Tart Tycoon" that bears some
resemblance to Apple Chief Executive Tim Cook.
Apple also sought a court order that would force Epic to disable
its own payment system in "Fortnite" on Apple devices.
(Reporting by Stephen Nellis; Editing by Richard Chang)
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