Apple loosens grip on iPhone apps – with a catch

Apple said it will permit developers to include buttons or links in apps that direct users to alternative purchasing venues such as websites. However, it told the court it would still collect a fee of 27% on transactions made using payment systems other than its own. — Photo by William Hook on Unsplash

SAN FRANCISCO: After a years-long legal battle, Apple says it will begin allowing iPhone app developers to use alternative payment systems – but they will still have to pay fees and meet various conditions.

The California company laid out its plan to relax control of apps on iPhones and iPads in a court filing late Tuesday related to its lengthy legal battle with Epic Games, maker of the highly popular Fortnite.