Apple has proposed charging developers a 15% commission on purchases completed through external links in iOS apps, after a US court required it to set out a revised fee structure. The proposal is significant because it forms part of Apple’s long-running dispute with Epic Games over whether Apple’s App Store rules unfairly restrict developers’ ability to direct customers to alternative payment options.

The proposed rate would fall to 5% for small-business developers and 10% for participants in Apple’s Video, News and Mini Apps partner programmes; subscription renewals would also carry a 10% fee. Apple had previously imposed a 27% charge and restrictions on how external links could be presented, which led to contempt-related proceedings; the Supreme Court declined to pause the lower-court case. Apple argues the fees recover the cost of maintaining its platform, and notes Google Play has comparable link-out charges.