Apple CEO Tim Cook and other top Apple executives are expected to be among the witnesses when a trial begins in the company’s legal battle with Fortnite creator Epic Games, according to an initial witness list Apple released late last Friday.
Why it matters: The lawsuit is with Epic, but at stake is Apple’s way of doing business in the App Store, including its 30% cut and requirement that developers use only Apple’s in-app payment system for digital goods.
- Among Apple’s witnesses are Cook, software chief Craig Federighi, and longtime marketing chief and current Apple fellow Phil Schiller,
- Epic CEO Tim Sweeney is also expected to testify, along with operating chief Daniel Vogel and marketing VP Matthew Weissinger.
- The trial is set to begin May 3 in federal court in Northern California.
Between the lines: Expect more fireworks as the trial draws closer and each side reveals information learned through discovery.
- For Apple, which tends to like to keep nearly everything confidential, lawsuits often provide a unique window into the company’s day-to-day operations, as was the case during its years-long battle with Samsung.
Yes, but: Some of the juiciest confidential info is often redacted.
