John,

Apple’s App Store isn’t just a storefront. It is a chokepoint that oppressive1 governments2 around the world3 wield to control the Internet.

For over a decade, Apple has forced its iPhone users to install software exclusively through its iOS app store. This has allowed Apple to wield control over what software its 1 billion iPhone users are allowed to access, and has ensured that Apple is able to collect a 30% cut from all sales. Authoritarian governments frequently exploit this situation by requesting Apple remove encrypted messaging apps, VPN services, and LGBTQ+ apps, in exchange for allowing Apple to continue doing business in their country.

END APPLE'S CHOKEPOINT

There is a promising bill on the horizon called the Open App Markets Act4, that could not only solve this issue entirely, but is also specific enough that we can be sure that this law wouldn’t negatively impact smaller developers. This is a clear path to victory, and it is critical that we let our lawmakers know that we support this legislation as soon as possible.

Call on Congress to force Apple to free your iPhone

Apple's firm grip on its App Store is a serious problem for human rights and free expression 5 all over the world. The App Store gives Apple unprecedented power to decide what we can see and do online. It squeezes small businesses, stifles competition, and hurts consumers, and worse of all, puts vulnerable groups at risk. Please, take a moment and let your lawmakers know that you support the Open App Markets Act.

Thanks,

Joe at Fight for the Future


  1. Vox: https://www.vox.com/recode/22680010/russia-apple-app-store-smart-voting-monopoly

  2. The Verge: https://www.theverge.com/2019/10/9/20907228/apple-quartz-app-store-china-removal-hong-kong-protests-censorship

  3. Fight for the Future: https://www.fightforthefuture.org/news/2021-06-14-apple-is-enabling-censorship-of-lgbtq-apps-in-152/

  4. Open Markets App Act: https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/2710/text

  5. Apple Censorship: https://applecensorship.com/



 

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