I’m a longtime apple user, I use an iPhone, iMac, Watch, & Airpod's. But right now, Apple controls everything I can do with it. They don’t let anyone else run app stores on iPhones. That means we can’t download apps from other sources, even when they’re safe, cheaper, or better. This isn’t fair.

 

 

 

 

 

 

A big example was when Apple banned Fortnite in 2020. Epic Games let users pay directly in the app to avoid Apple’s 30% fee. Apple kicked Fortnite off the App Store, and no one on iPhone could play. That included users here in New Zealand — restricting it to console only.

This 30% fee is like a hidden tax on all app purchases, and it’s one that developers are forced to pass on to us. It also means small developers can’t compete fairly, and users get fewer choices.

We understand that allowing other app stores might bring risks, like scam apps or fake software. But that’s exactly why we need smart rules, not just one company controlling everything. The European Union now requires Apple to allow third-party app stores. The United States is suing Apple for doing the same things. New Zealand is being left behind.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We ask the New Zealand Government to:

• Get the Commerce Commission to look into Apple’s App Store rules and how they affect users and developers in NZ.
• Pass new digital laws, like the EU, that let people use other app stores and choose how they install apps on their phones.
• Create modern rules to keep people safe from scams, while still allowing more freedom and competition.

This is about more than Fortnite. It’s about fairness, freedom, and the future of tech in New Zealand.

Please sign this petition to give Kiwis more choice, better prices, and a more open digital world!