Apple's App Store Changes: A Response to EU Demands

A Necessary Change

Apple has recently modified its pricing for the App Store within the European Union. This decision follows the implementation of the Digital Markets Act. The goal is to resolve ongoing tensions with the European Commission.

Revised Fees

With this update, Apple has reduced the Core Technology Fee and simplified its pricing structure. This means that apps distributed through alternative markets or on the web will be subject to lower fees. These changes are intended to allow for better competition in the app market.

A Desired Collaboration

When announcing these changes, Apple stated that it had worked closely with the European Commission. According to the statement, these adjustments aim to resolve previous disagreements regarding business terms and alternative app distribution.

Reactions from the European Commission

The Commission expressed its approval of the changes made by Apple. A spokesperson clarified that these changes follow a constructive dialogue between the two parties. The Commission will continue to monitor the implementation of the new conditions, which will take effect on October 1st.

Criticism from Epic Games

Despite this approval, Epic Games, one of Apple's main opponents on this front, quickly criticized the new pricing structure. The company denounced what it calls "junk fees," claiming that Apple's new terms do not comply with the Digital Markets Act. Epic argues that these changes do not open the app market to competition as they should.

Apple's New Fees

Here is an overview of the new fees that Apple will apply:

• 20% fee on alternative in-app payment options
• 15% fee on links allowing purchases outside of apps
• 5% Core Technology Commission on payments made in apps downloaded from alternative stores or the web

The law states that developers must be able to offer links to the web for purchases without fees and effectively use competing stores. According to Epic Games, Apple's terms contradict these requirements.

What This Means for Users

For users, these changes could mean a greater choice of apps and potentially more competitive prices. However, it remains to be seen how these measures will be implemented in practice.

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