Apple App store EU Changes: New Terms Under Digital Markets Act
Technology Commission (CTC).">
In response to the European Commission’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), Apple is implementing importent changes to its App Store policies in the European Union. These updates aim to foster greater competition and provide more flexibility for app developers,particularly regarding communication with users and business models. The changes include allowing developers to promote offers outside the App Store and transitioning to a new fee structure known as the Core Technology Commission (CTC).
New Communication and promotion Terms
Apple is introducing updated terms that allow developers with apps in the European Union storefronts of the App Store to communicate and promote offers for the purchase of digital goods or services at a destination of their choice. This destination can be a website, an alternative app marketplace, or another app. Developers can reach users outside the app or within the app using a web view or native experience.
Did You Know? The Digital Markets Act aims to prevent large online platforms from engaging in anti-competitive practices, ensuring a fairer digital market for businesses and consumers.
App Store apps that communicate and promote offers for digital goods or services will be subject to new business terms for those transactions.These include an initial acquisition fee, a store services fee, and, for apps on the StoreKit External Purchase Link Entitlement (EU) Addendum, the Core Technology Commission (CTC). Apple states that the CTC reflects the value it provides to developers through ongoing investments in tools, technologies, and services that enable them to build and share innovative apps with users.
Music streaming apps in the european Economic Area (EEA) wanting to use the Music Streaming Services Entitlement (EEA) can also leverage these new options.
Transition to a Single Business Model and the Core Technology Commission
By January 1, 2026, Apple plans to move to a single business model in the EU for all developers. Under this model, Apple will transition from the core Technology Fee (CTF) to the CTC on digital goods or services. The CTC will apply to digital goods or services sold by apps distributed from the app Store, Web Distribution, and/or alternative marketplaces.
apps currently under the Alternative Terms Addendum for Apps in the EU will continue to be subject only to the CTF until the transition to the CTC is fully implemented next year. After the transition,qualifying transactions will be subject to the CTC,and the CTF will no longer apply. Apple has stated that additional details regarding this transition will be provided at a later date.
User Experience Updates in iOS 18.6 and iPadOS 18.6
Beginning with iOS 18.6 and iPadOS 18.6, Apple will provide an updated user experience in the EU for installing alternative marketplaces or apps from a developer’s website. This update aims to streamline the process and make it more user-amiable. Additionally, later this year, Apple will provide an API that will allow developers to initiate the download of alternatively distributed apps they publish from within their app.
Pro Tip: Developers should familiarize themselves with the new terms and conditions to optimize their app distribution strategies in the EU.
Summary of Key Changes
| Change | Description | Implementation Date |
|---|---|---|
| Communication and Promotion of Offers | Developers can promote offers outside the App store. | Currently Available |
| Transition to CTC | Shift from CTF to CTC for digital goods and services. | January 1, 2026 |
| User Experience Updates | Improved experience for installing alternative marketplaces. | iOS 18.6 and iPadOS 18.6 |
Further Resources
Developers seeking more information can view Apple’s official documentation on Communication and promotion of offers on the App Store in the EU. The full terms are available in the Alternative Terms Addendum for Apps in the EU and the StoreKit External Purchase Link Entitlement Addendum for EU Apps. Apple also offers 30-minute online appointments for developers to ask questions and provide feedback.
impact on the App Ecosystem
these changes are expected to have a significant impact on the app ecosystem in the EU, potentially leading to increased competition and innovation. By allowing developers to communicate directly with users about offers and alternative distribution methods, Apple is opening up new avenues for growth and engagement. The transition to the CTC will also reshape the financial landscape for app developers, requiring them to adapt their business models accordingly.
Evergreen Insights: Background, Context, Historical Trends
The Digital Markets Act (DMA) is a landmark piece of legislation from the european Union designed to regulate large digital platforms, often referred to as “gatekeepers.” The DMA aims to ensure fair competition, prevent anti-competitive practices, and provide consumers with more choices in the digital market. This law is part of a broader effort to update regulations for the digital age, addressing issues such as data privacy, market dominance, and the power of online platforms. The DMA builds upon previous EU initiatives like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and seeks to create a more level playing field for businesses of all sizes in the digital economy.
FAQ
Q: Will these changes affect apps outside of the EU?
A: No, these changes are specifically for apps distributed in the European Union storefronts of the App Store.
Q: What is the purpose of the Core Technology Commission (CTC)?
A: The CTC is designed to reflect the value Apple provides to developers through its tools, technologies, and services.
Q: How can developers prepare for the transition to the CTC?
A: Developers should review Apple’s documentation and consider attending online appointments to understand the new terms and conditions.
What are your thoughts on these changes? How do you think they will impact the app growth landscape? Share your comments below!
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