Diversifying Payment Methods: The Key to Fair Competition & Innovation
- Aftab Khan
- Sep 1
- 2 min read
The Federal Court of Australia recently delivered a landmark ruling in favour of Epic Games, exposing how Apple and Google used their dominance to stifle competition in app distribution and payments. Justice Jonathan Beach found both tech giants breached competition laws under Section 46 of the Competition & Consumer Act (CCA) by limiting alternative payment options for app developers.
This ruling is a significant win for both developers and consumers, affirming that powerful platforms must play fair—and highlighting the urgent need for greater payment method diversification across all digital ecosystems.
💡So Why Does Diversification Matter?
✅ Less Reliance on Gatekeepers
Apple and Google imposed steep fees (15–30%) and limited developers to their proprietary payment systems.
This setup puts developers at the mercy of platform policies. Multiple payment options can reduce this dependency and related risks.
✅ Lower Costs, Better Value
Epic’s own store charges just a 12% fee—significantly less than what app stores demand.
By enabling alternative payment, developers could pass savings on to users, boosting affordability and retention.
✅ Stimulate Innovation & Competition
Monopolistic control can stifle creativity and new business models.
Diversifying payment methods encourages innovation, especially in user experience, loyalty programs, and tailored pricing.
✅ Fairer Ecosystems Across Industries
The benefits of diversified payments extend well beyond mobile apps. Whether in banking, insurance, travel or ecommerce, offering alternatives fosters competition, enhances customer experience, and empowers businesses.
🤔 What Does the Ruling Mean Going Forward?
💡Epic Games and Fortnite are set to return to iOS in Australia, through the Epic Games Store or alternative payment options.
💡The court’s decision includes outcomes from consolidated class actions by app developers, reinforcing industry pressure for reform.
💡This case sends a clear message: even the most dominant corporations must respect competition and consumer rights. Apple and Google have 28 days to appeal the decision to the Full Court of the Federal Court of Australia.
In summary, the Epic Games victory isn't just a win for one company—it’s a precedent with ripple effects across digital commerce. It opens the door to greater payment method diversity, putting the power back into the hands of developers, businesses, and consumers.
As we chart the future of digital ecosystems, embracing diversified payment frameworks won’t just drive fairness—it’ll foster innovation, trust, and sustainable growth.
How are you ensuring that your business is not exposed to such situations?
Aftab Khan
Sales Manager - Payment Consulting
On a mission to help change the world, one experience at a time
I collaborate with progressive businesses to deliver successful business outcomes in 4 key areas: Increasing Revenues, Improving Operational Efficiencies, Regulatory Compliance and Elevating Customer Experience, leading to sustainable business growth.
Connect with our team at Conexxia to fortify your payments landscape.
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