Judge Rejects Apple’s Request to Pause App Store Commission Case

In Oakland, U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers rejected Apple’s motion to pause the hearing on the commission it may levy for purchases directed to external storefronts from its App Store. Rogers emphasized that the Ninth Circuit’s injunction and contempt ruling remain in effect, and that the commission issue is a factual question outside the Supreme Court’s current review. The case stems from Epic Games’ 2020 antitrust lawsuit, which led to a split decision granting Apple victory on most counts but imposing a permanent injunction against blocking external links.

After Apple introduced a 27% fee for such linked purchases, the judge ordered the fee halted in April 2025, finding willful violation and referring possible criminal contempt. Subsequent appeals for emergency stays were denied, and the Supreme Court agreed to consider the contempt finding in its 2026 term. Apple’s counsel outlined two possible paths forward, but Rogers signaled she is not persuaded and expects the parties to proceed with determining a proper commission.