They aren't forced to use Apple as a distribution channel, just like Lenovo could also not sell computers on Amazon or at BestBuy and they probably make a highe

They aren't forced to use Apple as a distribution channel, just like Lenovo could also not sell computers on Amazon or at BestBuy and they probably make a higher margin when they sell D2C as well. It's a cold blooded move by Apple, but I don't think its "nefarious". I'm very much against their rent seeking with the app store though.