Apple Smooths Things Over with EU Through Updated App Store Guidelines

Apple Revamps App Store Rules in the European Union

Apple has announced significant changes to its App Store rules in the European Union, aiming to address its disputes with the Commission regarding business terms and alternative distribution methods. These changes are set to come into effect on October 1st and will impact developers distributing apps in the EU.

Key Changes in App Store Terms

Under the new terms, all developers distributing apps will be subject to a single set of business terms. Digital transactions for apps distributed outside of the App Store will incur a Core Technology Commission fee of 5 percent. Additionally, developers using Apple’s in-app purchase system will face a 26 percent commission, while those utilizing alternate payment providers will pay a 20 percent fee. A 15 percent commission will apply to purchases that direct users out of the app.

Flexibility for Developers

Developers in the EU will now have the option to offer both in-app purchases and alternative payment systems. However, they must maintain their chosen payment options for at least 12 months to ensure consistency and clarity for users, as per Apple’s guidelines.

Core Technology Commission and Other Fees

Apple will introduce a 5 percent Core Technology Commission on digital transactions in apps distributed through third-party app stores and the web. The company will no longer charge initial acquisition fees, store services fees, or the Core Technology Fee, which previously applied to apps with over 1 million annual installs.

Child Safety Features and Web Distribution

In addition to the new business terms, Apple is implementing child safety features for apps in the EU. Kids’ apps on the App Store are prohibited from linking to external websites for transactions. Users under 13 cannot be directed to external websites for purchases within App Store apps. Furthermore, users under 18 must obtain parental consent before making purchases using alternative payment methods within the App Store.

Web distribution will only be available in the EU, with eligibility criteria for operating third-party app marketplaces online, such as being a publicly traded company or undergoing a financial audit by a licensed accountant.

These updates aim to provide a more transparent and flexible environment for developers in the EU while enhancing child safety measures within the App Store ecosystem.