Apple vs Epic Games battle
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wrote on 21 Aug 2020, 22:06 last edited by
https://www.macrumors.com/guide/epic-games-vs-apple/
I think this is a quite significant story, with major influence on the future economics of software development.
I'm not quite sure who to side with. I like Tim Sweeney, the Epic Games CEO. I talked to him briefly a couple of years ago, when he gave a talk at a programming conference. He's very much interested in the academic side of programming and still knows the technology down to the bare metal. Quite impressive.
I also have the impression that Apple and Google take a too big piece of the pie.
But it's not so clear whether Epic Games' initiative is really good for consumers.
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wrote on 21 Aug 2020, 22:18 last edited by
I posted about this a while ago when Apple banned Epic from the App Store.
I agree, it's a conundrum.
40% (I think that's the amount) that Apple charges is certainly egregious. However, I guess in the contract that a developer signs they are aware of the fee. Also, if Apple's lawyers are any good, there would be a clause prohibiting what Epic did. I don't see how Epic can win this battle on legal terms, though it might prevail on moral terms.
[Ax mode]
If Epic Games doesn't like the method of distribution of their software they should develop their own platform for getting their software to consumers.
[/Ax mode]
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wrote on 21 Aug 2020, 23:24 last edited by Copper
Yes, Apple are blood-sucking rats, they hate developers and bleed them dry.
So, buy some Apple stock and make up the loss.
A number of Apps offer direct sales, but do it on their own web site. I do.
I think Epic wanted to cut out Apple by selling directly in the App. When it comes to this approach, I have a tiny little bit of sympathy for Apple.
Here is an example of a popular Aviation App: https://foreflight.com/pricing