An Australian court has found that both Apple and Google misused their market power in a legal battle with Epic Games, the developer of the popular video game Fortnite. The ruling marks a significant victory for developers who have long challenged the tech giants' control over their app platforms.

The dispute began in 2020 when Apple and Google removed Fortnite from their app stores. This action was a direct response to Epic Games creating an in-app payment system that bypassed the companies' own payment methods, allowing the game developer to avoid paying commission fees.

Victory for Developers and Consumers

Australia's Federal Court ruled that the dominance of the two tech firms' app stores reduced competition, likely forcing game developers to pay higher commission fees.

"This is a WIN for developers and consumers in Australia!" Epic Games said in a statement on Tuesday.

However, the court also rejected Epic Games' claim that Apple and Google engaged in "unconscionable conduct."

A spokesperson for Google stated that the company disagreed with some of the court's findings and would "review the full decision when we receive it and assess our next steps."

The court's decision is expected to have wider implications. Australian lawyers have already filed a class action lawsuit seeking compensation from Apple and Google on behalf of game developers and users.

Kimi Nishimura from Maurice Blackburn Lawyers said the judgment "sends a clear message that even the most powerful corporations must play by the rules and respect the rights of consumers and developers alike."