Changes from Apple for the European Union
Apple has outlined changes to iOS, Safari, and the App Store to meet the European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA) requirements. These changes affect developers distributing apps in the 27 EU member countries, introducing new options while maintaining security and privacy. Below is a summary of key updates with relevant quotes and links.
Official Announcement
Apple announced updates to comply with the DMA, including over 600 new APIs, enhanced app analytics, support for alternative browser engines, and options for alternative payment processing and app distribution.
"The changes include more than 600 new APIs, expanded app analytics, functionality for alternative browser engines, and options for processing app payments and distributing iOS apps. Across every change, Apple is introducing new safeguards that reduce — but don’t eliminate — new risks the DMA poses to EU users."
Updates for Apps in the EU
Developers can now distribute apps outside the App Store, use alternative payment systems, and access new browser engines and interoperability features. No action is needed for developers who prefer the existing App Store terms.
"For existing developers who want nothing to change for them — from how the App Store works currently and in the rest of the world — no action is needed, and they can continue to distribute their apps only on the App Store and use its private and secure In-App Purchase system."
Notarisation for iOS Apps
All iOS apps, regardless of distribution channel, undergo notarisation to ensure security and privacy through automated checks and human review.
"Notarisation for iOS apps is a baseline review that applies to all apps, regardless of their distribution channel, focused on platform policies for security and privacy and to maintain device integrity."
Alternative Payment Options
Developers can link to external payment systems, but Apple charges a commission on digital goods or services sold within seven days of linking out. This applies to initial sales and subscription renewals.
"For linking out, the commission applies to sales of digital goods or services that are initiated within seven calendar days after the user taps 'Continue' on the in-app notice sheet."
Alternative Browser Engines
iOS 17.4 allows apps to use browser engines other than WebKit, giving users more browser choices.
"iOS 17.4 introduces new capabilities that let iOS apps use alternative browser engines — browser engines other than WebKit — for dedicated browser apps and apps providing in-app browsing experiences in the EU."
Note: While this offers more choice, it may increase the dominance of browsers like Chrome. Some users may prefer to stick with Safari.
HCE-Based Contactless Payments
New APIs in iOS 17.4 enable banking and wallet apps to support contactless payments using host card emulation (HCE) at NFC terminals.
"Users based in the European Economic Area (EEA) with an iPhone running iOS 17.4 or later can initiate in-person payment transactions from a banking or wallet app at compatible NFC terminals or mobile devices that accept contactless payments."
Interoperability Requests
Developers can request additional interoperability with iPhone and iOS features under the DMA, with Apple evaluating each request.
"Apple has designed a new process for developers of iOS apps in the European Union to request additional interoperability with hardware and software features built into iPhone and iOS."
Expanded App Analytics and Data Portability
Apple provides over 50 new reports via the App Store Connect API, covering engagement, commerce, app usage, and framework interactions.
"Over 50 new reports will be available through the App Store Connect API to help developers analyse their app performance and find opportunities for improvement."
Core Technology Fee (CTF)
The CTF applies to developers with over one million first annual installs in the EU under the new business terms, reflecting Apple's investment in tools and services.
"Developers who achieve exceptional scale on iOS, with apps that have over one million first annual installs in the past 12 months in the EU, will pay a Core Technology Fee."
Note: Non-profits, government organisations, and educational institutions can apply for a fee waiver.
Fee Calculator
Developers can choose between existing App Store terms or new terms with reduced commissions, optional payment processing fees, and the CTF for high install volumes.
"Developers can choose to adopt these new business terms, or stay on Apple’s existing terms."
Analysis
For apps with high installs (e.g., over one million annually) but low revenue (e.g., free apps with donations or small one-time purchases), the new terms may not be cost-effective. Example:
- Scenario: 2 million first annual installs in the EU, $25,000 annual revenue.
- Existing Terms: $313/month in commission.
- New Terms: $45,561/month in commission and fees.
The Core Technology Fee may need adjustments to better support low-revenue, high-install apps. This overview aims to clarify Apple's DMA compliance changes for developers and users.
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