Epic Games dismisses Apple's simplified EU App Store fees as 'junk'
Consumer group sees improvements on paper but warns the devil remains in the detail
Apple has dismissed the European Commission's simplified App Store fee structure as "junk fees," while a consumer group remains cautious. The new terms, announced on August 18, introduce a single set of business rules for developers in the European Union, reducing complexity. Apple claims these changes resolve their long-standing dispute with the Commission over fees and alternative distribution.
Under the new system, developers using Apple In-App Purchase will pay a 26% commission, reduced to 15% for qualifying developers. Apps using alternative payment processing will face a 20% commission, down to 10% for qualifying developers. Apps linking to the web for purchases will incur a 15% commission, lowered to 10% for qualifying developers.
Digital transactions will be subject to a 5% Core Technology Commission, also reduced to 10% for qualifying developers. Apple asserts that these changes align with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) and address the Commission's concerns, but Epic Games remains skeptical, labeling the scheme as "junk fees" and arguing it does not promote competition in the app ecosystem.
The European Consumer Organisation also expressed caution, noting that while the fee structure appears simpler on paper, it remains unclear if these commitments will genuinely benefit consumers.
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