Sony Faces £2 Billion Antitrust Action Over PlayStation Store Fees in the UK
Japanese electronics giant Sony is facing another major antitrust lawsuit in the United Kingdom. The case, valued at approximately £2 billion ($2.7 billion), accuses the company of charging “excessive fees” to PlayStation users. The news was first reported by Engadget.
The collective action has been filed on behalf of an estimated 12.2 million gamers, led by consumer rights advocate Alex Neill. The hearing is scheduled to begin on 10 March at the Competition Appeal Tribunal (CAT) in London.
According to the claim, Sony has created a “monopolistic position” in the distribution of digital games and in-game content through the PlayStation Store. The lawsuit alleges that the company established this dominance by prohibiting rival download systems and by charging developers and publishers a 30 percent commission. It further claims that these costs are ultimately passed on to consumers.
The case covers all PlayStation console owners in the United Kingdom who purchased digital games or made in-game purchases through the PlayStation Store between 19 August 2016 and 12 February 2026. It has been filed as an “opt-out” action, meaning eligible individuals do not need to apply separately and will automatically be included. If the case succeeds, each claimant could receive approximately £162 ($217).
Sony has denied the allegations. The company argues that allowing downloads from third-party stores could pose security and privacy risks. It also states that it invests heavily in hardware and often sells consoles at very low profit margins or even at a loss. According to Sony, the commission earned from digital sales helps offset those costs.
Notably, in a similar case last October, Apple was found liable for charging excessive fees through its App Store. A British tribunal imposed a £1.5 billion fine on Apple, and the company filed an appeal in December.
The hearing in Sony’s case is expected to begin on 10 March and continue for approximately 10 weeks.
DBTech/BMT/OR
