Proton Mail developer sues Apple in the U.S. over App Store model

Privacy-focused Swiss tech company Proton, best known for its encrypted email service Proton Mail, is suing Apple in the United States on behalf of “millions” of developers around the world. Here are the details.

The proposed class action, filed Monday in California (via Reuters), claims Apple has: “eliminated competition and extracted supracompetitive profits from app developers through a web of exclusionary conduct.”

Proton says the lawsuit represents millions of iOS developers who are subject to what it calls Apple’s “stranglehold” over how apps are distributed and how payments are processed on iOS, and requests
a jury trial to decide the claims.

The complaint also describes Apple’s dominance as a system that:

“Suppresses competition, obstructs innovation, and deprives consumers of meaningful choices in privacy-respecting technologies.”

The case focuses on two key markets: iOS app distribution and iOS in-app payment processing

Proton argues that Apple’s rules, such as the mandatory use of its in-app purchase system, the ban on alternative app stores, and commission rates of up to 30%, violate U.S. antitrust law.

Proton is asking the court to force Apple to allow competing app stores and payment processors on iOS, and to award monetary damages for the alleged high fees and business restrictions developers have faced for years:

“This lawsuit seeks to restore competition to the iOS app distribution and payment processing markets through injunctive relief that would allow competing app stores and payment processors to serve iOS users. This action also seeks monetary damages for developers for the harm suffered from Apple’s illegal monopolization, including the excessive commissions it has been forced to pay and the lost opportunities for innovation and growth.”

The filing comes just days after Apple announced sweeping App Store rule changes in the EU, including support for multiple external links, third-party payment providers, and new fee structures for developers. These changes, however, do not apply to the U.S. App Store. Apple has also made clear it’s not thrilled with the European Commission’s demands, stating that:

“The European Commission is requiring Apple to make a series of additional changes to the App Store. We disagree with this outcome and plan to appeal.”

The case is Proton AG v. Apple Inc., No. 4:25-cv-05450. We’ve reached out to Apple for comment and will update this post if we hear back.

Best accessory deals on Amazon

• Anker 25,000mAh power bank, 100W, USB-C: $119.99
• Anker Foldable 3-in-1 wireless charger, 15W, Qi2: 20% off, at $71.99
• AirPods Pro 2: 20% off, at $199.00
• AirTag, 4 Pack: 24% off, at $74.99
• HomeKit Smart Plug, 15A, 4 Pack: 20% off, at $34.99

Keep track of your essentials with the Apple AirTag 4 Pack, the ultimate tracking solution for your belongings. With over 5,972 ratings and a stellar 4.7-star average, this product has quickly become a customer favorite. Over 10,000 units were purchased in the past month, solidifying its status as a highly rated Amazon Choice product.

For just $79.98, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your items are always within reach. Order now for only $79.98 at Amazon!

Help Power Techcratic’s Future – Scan To Support

If Techcratic’s content and insights have helped you, consider giving back by supporting the platform with crypto. Every contribution makes a difference, whether it’s for high-quality content, server maintenance, or future updates. Techcratic is constantly evolving, and your support helps drive that progress.

As a solo operator who wears all the hats, creating content, managing the tech, and running the site, your support allows me to stay focused on delivering valuable resources. Your support keeps everything running smoothly and enables me to continue creating the content you love. I’m deeply grateful for your support, it truly means the world to me! Thank you!