Tech giant Apple has filed a motion indicating its willingness to explore a settlement with Epic Games, alongside proposing a new commission structure for purchases made outside the App Store‘s IAP system. The legal maneuver comes shortly after the U.S. Supreme Court rejected Apple‘s request to pause lower-court proceedings regarding a contempt finding by Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers.
The Proposed Commission Structure and Epic’s Pushback
Under the newly submitted framework, Apple seeks to charge commissions of up to 15% on alternative payment purchases. However, Epic Games immediately rejected these terms, arguing that the proposed fees exceed the guidance provided by the Ninth Circuit. The dispute stems from Apple‘s previous implementation of a 27% commission after being mandated to allow developers to direct users to external payment methods.
Pushing for Court-Ordered Settlement Discussions
In addition to commission proposals, Apple filed a motion asking Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers to order both companies into a settlement conference supervised by Magistrate Judge Joseph C. Spero. Although Apple‘s legal counsel consulted with Epic‘s representatives on August 11, 2026, Epic Games declined to consent voluntarily, prompting Apple to request a court order to force the discussions.
Path Forward and Prolonged Legal Battles
Apple argues that confidential, non-adversarial talks could resolve the ongoing litigation and eliminate the need for prolonged remand proceedings. While the filing does not contain specific settlement terms, it highlights a shifting strategy for Apple as it attempts to find a practical resolution in the high-stakes antitrust battle.
