Apple is adjusting its EU App Store policies to align with the requirements of the Digital Markets Act

In a move prompted by the European Commission's Digital Markets Act, Apple has altered its regulations for the EU App Store. This update follows a deadline set for Apple earlier this month.

The new policy introduces greater flexibility for developers, allowing them to connect users to offers and purchases on external websites. However, the updated system ties key App Store features for developers to the share of revenue they allocate to Apple from online purchase activities.

Two tiers have been established: Tier 1 is compulsory and provides necessary developer benefits like app reviews and Apple Support, with Apple receiving a 5% share. In contrast, Tier 2 is optional and includes crucial tools such as automatic updates and better app exposure, costing developers a larger 13% (or 10% for those in the Small Business Program).

Developers can opt into Tier 1 and switch between tiers quarterly. Additionally, an initial acquisition charge of 2% applies to both tiers for transactions by new users.

In Apple's words, "The single commission on digital goods and services is tailored to reflect the diverse value Apple delivers to developers," stating on a developer page. This encompasses services from app distribution and discovery to secure payment processes.

Under Apple's different business model, a €0.50 Core Technology Fee will apply per first annual install for any app exceeding one million installs annually, regardless of distribution method.

For its usual business terms in the EU, a 5% Core Technology Commission will be implemented on digital sales made through any developer-preferred store, which will replace the initial technology fee by January 2026.

More comprehensive details on the revised system are available here. The European Commission has not yet commented on these updates.

Previously, Apple was fined $565.5 million (€500m) due to policy breaches, a decision Apple intends to contest, affirming the necessity for further App Store adjustments as dictated by the European Commission. They stated, "We disagree with this outcome and plan to appeal."

Critics, including Epic's Tim Sweeney, have labeled Apple's compliance strategy as "malicious" on social media. This follows a significant legal decision in the U.S. permitting third-party iOS payments for which Apple's appeal is ongoing.