Apple has done other unprecedented things, after claiming "if this doesn't change, we will take something from customers"
Apple rarely takes something from customers, to the point I'm searching for examples beyond iCards... which are back recently as Invites
It’s like a comparison of “I’d be mildly annoyed” vs. “I’ll burn myself alive” as far as reactions go.
Unless Apple devices become illegal to import or use (unlikely), the resultant gray market will starve said governments of significant yearly iPhone + case purchase VAT
Apple might lose something like 1/2 the revenue you suggest in a realistic scenario. 12% is nothing for a company like Apple who has a strong POV.
For a few more years until their former customers move on to competitor's walled garden and become their customers.
> starve said governments of significant yearly iPhone + case purchase VAT
I can't believe any government seriously feeling the lack of VAT from iPhone sales. That's tiny, even for tiny countries in the EU.
Not to mention lack of iPhone sales don't equal lack of Smartphone sales, and grey markets would make an already pricy product even pricier and less desirable because of lack of support, warranty etc.
Other brands will sell, and VAT will be collected.
Ah yeah, people really don't mind giving up things like iMessage, as we've clearly seen.