Privacy-focused app maker Proton sues Apple over alleged anticompetive practices and fees

Proton, the developer behind privacy-centric applications such as Proton Mail and Proton Calendar, has initiated a lawsuit against Apple, accusing the tech giant of anticompetitive behavior within its App Store ecosystem. The lawsuit, filed in the Northern District of California, asserts that Apple monopolizes the smartphone market, app distribution, and payment processing. In its claims, Proton likens Apple’s fees to unjust tariffs imposed on internet commerce, labeling them as "artificial and arbitrary." The company seeks not only changes to the existing App Store framework but also financial compensation, which it intends to donate to organizations dedicated to promoting democracy and human rights. This legal action adds to a growing wave of lawsuits challenging Apple’s dominance in the mobile app landscape, joining forces with other developers, including a collective of Korean app creators. Proton's case follows the high-profile legal battle between Epic Games and Apple, which, despite not being classified as a monopoly, led to a court ruling requiring Apple to allow U.S. developers to link to alternative payment options without incurring fees. Proton's lawsuit distinguishes itself by referencing the Epic Games case, arguing that the evidence shows Apple's substantial profits from App Store fees raise questions about their necessity for maintaining the platform. The company also highlights restrictive policies that prevent developers from communicating directly with users about discounts available on their websites. Moreover, the suit points out complications caused by Apple’s payment systems, such as difficulties in managing subscriptions across devices. For instance, users who upgrade their accounts online are unable to downgrade through their iOS devices, creating a frustrating user experience. Additionally, Proton claims that its Calendar app cannot be set as the default calendar application, unlike other apps that can be customized as defaults on iOS. The lawsuit also mentions restrictions on Proton Drive, which cannot process tasks in the background, unlike Apple's iCloud. A significant focus of Proton's argument is the assertion that Apple’s singular control over the App Store facilitates censorship in oppressive regimes, citing instances where Apple has had to remove applications to comply with laws in countries like China and Russia. Such actions, Proton argues, have detrimental effects on developers and consumers worldwide, including threats to their VPN app, which was at risk of removal for enabling access to blocked content. Proton’s statement encapsulates the broader concerns regarding Apple’s monopoly, emphasizing that the power derived from such a status often leads to systemic abuses that affect consumers, businesses, and society at large. The company argues that it is imperative to address these issues to safeguard the future of the internet. As of now, Proton is awaiting a response from Apple regarding the allegations made in the lawsuit.