On January 25, 2024, Apple announced sweeping changes to its App Store policies in order to comply with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). apple app store eu

The DMA, which is set to take effect on March 7, 2024, is designed to address market power abuses by large tech companies, such as Apple.

Key changes to the App Store:

• Allowance for third-party app stores: Apple will allow users in the EU to install alternative app stores on their iPhones and iPads. This is a major change, as Apple has historically required all apps to be distributed through its own App Store.

• Lower fees for in-app purchases: Apple will reduce its commission fee from 30% to 15% for digital goods and services purchased through third-party app stores. This could save app developers millions of dollars in fees each year.

• Expanded choice of browsers: Apple will allow users in the EU to choose their default browser from a list of approved options, including Chrome, Firefox, and Samsung Internet. This is a change from the current situation, where Safari is the default browser on all Apple devices.

• New APIs for app developers: Apple will provide developers with new APIs that will give them more control over their apps and how they interact with the device. This could lead to more innovative and personalized apps.

These changes are a major victory for app developers and consumers in the EU. They will give developers more freedom to choose how they distribute their apps and how they monetize them, and they will give consumers more choice in the browsers they use.

Here is a summary of the new rules: apple app store eu

• Users: Users in the EU will be able to download apps from third-party app stores, set a third-party app store as their default, and choose their default browser from a list of approved options.

• Developers: Developers will be able to use alternative payment methods for in-app purchases, use new APIs to access device capabilities, and provide users with more information about their apps.

• Apple: Apple will continue to provide a safe and secure app ecosystem, and it will continue to invest in innovation and privacy protections.

Apple has been criticized for its App Store policies for years, and the DMA is a major step toward addressing those concerns. The new rules are a win for both developers and consumers, and they could lead to a more competitive and innovative app market.

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