Nach Millionenstrafe: Apple nimmt nach EU-Strafe Änderungen im App-Store vor

Apple is making changes to its App Store following a 500 million euro fine imposed by the European Union (EU) in October. These adjustments aim to provide EU users with greater choice when downloading and paying for apps, according to statements from both the tech giant and the EU Commission. The main changes involve developers of Apple-compatible apps being given more freedom in how they distribute their programs and how users pay for them.

The software will also allow downloading from web pages or online marketplaces run by third parties, outside of the App Store. Currently, Apple prevents developers from using such alternative distribution channels, according to EU competition watchdogs. The EU regulation seeks to ensure fair competition. The Brussels authority stated it would closely monitor the actual implementation of the new conditions.

Apple is considered a gatekeeper under EU rules, providing a crucial entry point to consumers through its offerings. The Digital Markets Act (DMA) requires companies like Alphabet, Amazon, or Apple to follow specific obligations to ensure fair competition on digital markets. The concern is that some dominant platform operators have become so powerful that they could cement their market positions.