EU ‘welcomes’ Apple steps to comply with digital rules

The European Commission has expressed satisfaction with Apple's recent modifications to its rules governing app developers in response to the commission's competition rules, thereby averting the possibility of additional fines. In April 2025, the EU imposed a €500 million penalty (US$586 million) on Apple for violating EU regulations by restricting developers from directing users outside the App Store to access cheaper alternatives.

The EU statement affirmed that Apple has agreed to amend its terms for both iPhone and iPad users, allowing developers the choice between the App Store, third-party app stores, or web-based distribution channels. The EU executive said in a statement that it welcomes Apple's adjustments to its business terms, and the tech giant will implement the new terms across the bloc starting in October 2026.

Apple's own statement disclosed the changes, which it claims resolve disagreements between the company and the Commission regarding business terms and alternative distribution methods.

Following the €500 million fine last year, Apple was ordered to make changes to comply with the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA) or face periodic penalty payments that could reach over €50 million daily. Apple submitted proposals in June of the previous year and has since engaged in negotiations with the Commission over the final details of its offer. Currently, the Commission is not considering periodic penalty payments but is monitoring the announced measure, according to an EU spokesperson.

Under the new terms, developers will have increased flexibility to steer App Store users towards alternative platforms and payment systems. Apple also committed to reducing and streamlining its App Store fees. EU users will be able to utilize alternative app distribution channels, even when traveling outside the bloc, the commission emphasized.

Over recent years, the EU has strengthened its legal arsenal through the DMA and Digital Services Act, both criticized by the US administration as regulatory overreach. Apple has frequently opposed the DMA antitrust rules, arguing it has no choice but to make the modifications under threat of substantial fines. The tech company has challenged the stricter DMA rules in a top EU court, arguing that they should not apply to its iOS operating system and App Store, but the case was dismissed last month.

US President Donald Trump has criticized the EU's digital laws and taxes as "non-tariff barriers" to trade, and many tech executives have aligned with his administration.