Apple had a “substantial degree of market power” because of the restrictions placed on in-app payment systems and the distribution of iOS-compatible apps, he said.

Justice Jonathan Beach said Apple had a “substantial degree of market power” because of the restrictions placed on in-app payment systems and the distribution of iOS-compatible apps. Source: AAP / AP/Patrick Semansky

Google also had a significant degree of market power and was the predominant supplier of Android apps, the court was told.

Lawyers for the plaintiffs welcomed the result as a significant win for consumer rights and digital fairness that could have global implications for how digital platforms operate.

Epic Games is the developer of popular online game Fortnite. Source: AAP / Bianca de Marchi

“This judgment is a turning point,” said Kimi Nishimura from Maurice Blackburn Lawyers. “It sends a clear message that even the most powerful corporations must play by the rules and respect the rights of consumers and developers alike.”

A Google spokesperson said the company disagreed with the court’s characterisation of its billing policies and practices and would review the full decision.

A Google spokesperson said the company disagreed with the court’s characterisation of its billing policies and pratices. Source: Getty / NurPhoto

Apple welcomed the “rejection of some of Epic’s claims, however, we strongly disagree with the court’s ruling on others”.