In response to Watermelo, Chris Hewish, Chief Strategy and Communications Officer at Xsolla, shared his analysis of the recent ruling in the Epic versus Apple case and its impact on the future of the video game industry. As a global provider of payment services and monetization solutions for online games, Xsolla sees the decision as a complex turning point for developers operating within Apple's ecosystem.

According to Hewish, “the ruling has mixed implications for developers.” While Apple maintains its authority over app distribution by continuing to prohibit third-party app stores and sideloading, the court determined that developers must be allowed to “direct users to alternative payment systems outside Apple’s in-app purchase system.” However, he noted that “the ruling only applies within the United States,” meaning that developers in other regions remain subject to Apple’s standard commission model, typically a 30% cut, unless local laws dictate otherwise.

On the question of market competition, Hewish suggested that a gradual shift may be underway. “The market could become more competitive, especially regarding payment processing options,” he said. Developers may now have a legal foundation to inform users about alternative payment routes, potentially reducing costs. He added that while the App Store still acts as the primary gateway for iOS apps, the court’s decision “chips away at Apple’s total control,” creating space for “innovation in monetization strategies and pressure for platform-level reforms.”

When asked about in-app payment systems, Hewish explained that the decision opens the door to meaningful changes. “The ruling essentially means that alternative payment options must be allowed,” which could result in “more competitive fees, better developer revenue splits, and improved consumer pricing.” Still, he warned that Apple “retains the ability to set guidelines on how these links are presented,” suggesting the company may “implement guardrails, such as design guidelines or disclosure requirements.”

Regarding the consumer perspective, Hewish struck a measured tone. “Consumers win modestly from this decision,” he said. The availability of alternative payment methods may lead to “lower prices or better value for in-game purchases,” along with “increased transparency in pricing and payment methods.” Yet he acknowledged that most users may not see immediate changes and that “usability could suffer slightly if redirected outside the app.” Ultimately, “the win is incremental, not transformative, but meaningful in the long term.”

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.