Apple Faces Class Action Lawsuit
Consumers have filed a class-action lawsuit against Apple, claiming that the tech giant has restricted peer-to-peer payment options and blocked the integration of crypto technology in iOS payment apps.
The lawsuit, filed by Venmo and Cash App customers, accuses Apple of entering anti-competitive agreements with prominent payment platforms, such as PayPal’s Venmo and Block’s Cash App.
According to the complaint, Apple imposed limitations on the utilization of decentralized cryptocurrency technology in payment applications, leading users to incur rapidly inflating prices.
The 58-page lawsuit provides a thorough account of the evolution of peer-to-peer payment apps and decentralized cryptocurrencies and alleges that Apple deploys technological and contractual restraints to exert control over every app installed and operated on iPhones and iPads.
What Plaintiffs Demand?
The plaintiffs seek to recover funds for excessive fees and overcharging due to Apple’s alleged actions. The lawsuit also delves into Apple’s recent foray into the crypto market and highlights the company’s involvement in a similar legal tussle over app restrictions in the past.
In April, the Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit found Apple culpable of breaching California’s competition laws, revealing that the company prohibited applications from guiding users to payment methods not linked to Apple.
Apple has not issued any statements regarding the lawsuit, leaving the unfolding legal proceedings to determine the outcome.
Hot Take: Apple’s Legal Battle Over Payment Restrictions
Consumers have taken legal action against Apple, claiming that the company is restricting peer-to-peer payment options and blocking the integration of crypto technology in iOS payment apps. The lawsuit highlights Apple’s alleged anti-competitive agreements with prominent payment platforms and its imposition of limitations on decentralized cryptocurrency technology. With a similar legal battle over app restrictions in the past, the outcome of this lawsuit remains to be seen as Apple refrains from issuing any public statements.