Apple is facing growing legal pressure in Europe as a new lawsuit in France challenges the company’s App Store fee system. The consumer group Consommation, Logement et Cadre de Vie (CLCV) claims that users paid higher prices when subscribing to music services through the App Store, arguing that costs increased by about $1 to $3 per month compared to signing up online. The lawsuit covers subscriptions purchased between 2011 and 2025, making it one of the most extensive legal actions involving Apple’s pricing model.
Why the Case Matters
At the center of the dispute is Apple’s long-standing commission structure, which charges developers up to 30% on in-app purchases during the first year. Subscriptions play a major role in Apple’s Services revenue, and music apps are among the most affected. If the court determines that Apple’s fees directly harmed consumers, it could reshape the company’s business model in Europe.
CLCV is also using a March 2024 European Commission ruling as part of its argument. That ruling fined Apple nearly $2 billion for abusing its dominant position by limiting how apps could inform users about cheaper web options.
Apple Pushes Back
Apple strongly rejects the claims, stating that Europe’s music market remains competitive. The company points to Spotify, which holds about 56% of the European streaming market and has not paid Apple any fees since removing in-app subscriptions in 2018. Despite avoiding Apple’s commission, Spotify still increased its prices in France, a move Apple argues shows developers—not the App Store—set consumer pricing.
Wider Impact Across Europe
The lawsuit in France is part of a broader effort in multiple European countries, including Belgium, Italy, Spain, and Portugal. Advocacy groups are seeking millions in restitution, turning the issue into a major challenge for Apple’s platform policies. A ruling against Apple could influence other subscription industries such as news and gaming, and force the company to rethink how it earns revenue from its ecosystem.
As Europe becomes the main battleground, the outcome of this case may shape the future of Apple’s App Store rules worldwide.
