TECHNOLOGY · VERIFIED DEVELOPMENT
Apple Simplifies EU App Store Fees, Lowers Barriers for Alternative Marketplaces
WHY IT MATTERS
The change could lower entry costs for developers, foster competition, and give European users more choices for iOS apps.
What happened
Apple has announced a change to its EU App Store fee structure, replacing the previous per‑install fee with a flat 5% commission for apps distributed outside the official App Store. The company also eased regulatory requirements that allow developers to set up and run alternative app marketplaces on iOS devices.
The move is intended to reduce costs for developers and increase competition in the European market by making it simpler to offer apps through non‑Apple channels.
Apple’s new policy reflects ongoing pressure from EU regulators to promote a more open app ecosystem.
DEVELOPING STORY
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PRIMARY SOURCES
Apple overhauls its EU App Store fees, loosens rules for alternative app stores
TechCrunch · Sarah Perez · Discovery only; publisher copyright terms apply