App Store would be 'toxic' mess without control, Apple CEO says By AFP - May 24,2021 - Last updated at May 24,2021 Apple CEO Tim Cook (obscured), leaves court after testifying at the United States District Court on Friday, in Oakland, California (AFP file photo) SAN FRANCISCO — Apple's online marketplace would become a "toxic" mess if the iPhone maker were forced to allow third-party apps without reviewing them, chief executive Tim Cook told a high-stakes trial on Friday challenging the company's tight control of its platform. Cook, the last scheduled witness in the case brought by Fortnite maker Epic Games, offered a robust defence of Apple's procedures for reviewing and approving all the apps it offers for iPhone and iPad users.