Apple announces changes for apps in the European Union

Apple has announced new business terms for apps in the European Union after working closely with the European Commission. These changes aim to resolve disagreements over business terms and distribution methods. Starting October 1, all developers distributing apps in the EU will be subject to a single set of business terms.

Under the new model, Apple will charge a 5 percent commission on digital transactions, replacing the previous Core Technology Fee and initial acquisition fee. The store services fee has been eliminated as well. Apple is also adjusting commission rates across the App Store, alternative app payments, and alternatively distributed apps.

A key change allows developers to offer Apple In-App Purchase alongside alternative payment options, adhering to presentation requirements for a consistent user experience. Developers can select their payment options for a period of 12 months.

Child safety protections for alternative payments in the EU mirror those in other markets, with requirements scaling in member states that mandate parental consent for digital actions for users over 13 years old.

Apple is expanding eligibility for alternative app marketplaces or web distribution in the EU. Companies can qualify if they offer web distribution, which comes without the oversight provided by Apple's App Store. However, to maintain safety, every alternatively distributed app must still undergo Notarization, a review focused on functionality and threat protection. Developers can find detailed resources on the Apple Developer Support page.