On 22 October 2026, Justice Beach of the Federal Court of Australia delivered orders in Epic Games Inc v Apple Inc (No 2) [2026] FCA 1552 (file NSD 1236 of 2020), giving effect to prior liability findings that Apple Inc contravened s 46 of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth) by restricting iOS app distribution to the App Store and requiring in-app purchases through Apple’s IAP system.
Key declarations and orders
The Court declared that since 6 November 2017 Apple engaged in conduct with the purpose or likely effect of substantially lessening competition in iOS app distribution and in-app payment solution markets, including prohibiting sideloading, alternative app stores, and non-IAP payment methods for digital content.
Fortnite and Epic apps: Upon written application, Apple must readmit Fortnite and other Epic iOS apps to the Australian App Store subject to DPLA and guidelines consistent with the orders.
Alternative distribution: From noon Melbourne time on 1 March 2027 (orders 12–13; possible extension to 3 May 2027), Apple must enable Australian Apple Account users to discover, obtain, and update iOS apps—including alternative app stores—via channels other than the App Store after security notarization, and must not hinder developers or users from using those channels. Fees or conditions on alternative distribution are barred, with detailed limits on discrimination, pre-installation bans, and removal of apps except for security, malware, or legal requirements.
Alternative payments: Apple must permit developers to use and steer users to non-IAP payment methods for digital in-app purchases on the Australian storefront, with security requirements only if proportionate and preceded by reasonable notice. Caps apply on fees Apple may charge when developers use external payment methods.
Geographic scope: Injunctions apply to the Australian App Store and users with Australian Apple Accounts; developers and payment providers may be located worldwide if enrolled in Apple’s Developer Program.
Costs: Apple to pay 85% of Epic’s costs of the liability trial; relief hearing costs reserved. Injunctions have no fixed sunset; Apple may apply under s 80(3) to vary or discharge if circumstances change.
Context
The judgment follows Epic v Apple liability reasons [2025] FCA 900 and parallels global app-store antitrust litigation, including US Epic proceedings. Apple estimated roughly six months of engineering work for Australia-specific entitlements and policy engines; expert evidence debated whether changes are primarily policy versus code updates.