Apple squashes EU beef with new App Store rules
Apple is updating its App Store policies in the European Union to comply with the Digital Markets Act, introducing a new fee structure for developers. The changes include a 5 percent Core Technology Commission for apps distributed outside the App Store and revised commission rates for in-app purchases.
Why it matters
These changes represent a significant regulatory compromise between a major tech giant and EU authorities, impacting how software is distributed and monetized in Europe.
Apple is once again overhauling App Store rules in the European Union, which the company says will resolve its “disagreements with the Commission over business terms and alternative distribution.” As part of the changes, every developer that distributes apps will be moved to a single set of business terms, and digital transactions for apps distributed outside of the App Store will be subject to a Core Technology Commission fee of 5 percent.
The new terms go into effect on October 1st. They will include a 26 percent commission for App Store apps that use Apple’s in-app purchase system, or a 20 percent fee for developers using alternate payment providers. Developers must also pay a 15 percent commission on purchases that link out of the app. Apple will reduce these rates for developers in the App Store Small Business Program, Mini Apps Partner Program, or Video Partner Program.
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