The U.S. Supreme Court has rejected Apple's request to temporarily block a judicial order that found the company in contempt for violating court-mandated changes to its App Store. The case stems from Epic Games' 2020 antitrust lawsuit challenging Apple's commission structure.
Justice Elena Kagan declined to pause the 9th Circuit Appeals Court ruling that held Apple in contempt. Apple had sought the delay to file a full Supreme Court appeal.
The dispute centers on Apple's App Store rules. In 2021, a court ordered Apple to allow developers to include links directing users to non-Apple payment methods. Apple complied but imposed new restrictions, including a 27% commission for purchases made outside the App Store within seven days of clicking a link, compared to the standard 30% in-app fee.
Epic argued the new commission violated the original injunction, and U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers in 2025 found Apple in civil contempt. The 9th Circuit upheld that finding in December.
Apple denies wrongdoing and argues the injunction should not apply to millions of developers beyond Epic. The company warned that regulators worldwide are watching the case.
Epic contends Apple should not be allowed to sidestep the judge's order, accusing the company of profiting unfairly at the expense of consumers and developers.
The case returns to the 9th Circuit for further proceedings.