Apple Revamps EU App Store Rules After Penalty: What It Means for Developers and Users

Apple has announced some changes to its App Store in response to the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). These updates aim to prevent further penalties while reopening discussions about app purchases made outside the platform.

New Commission Tiers

Apple introduced a tier system for its Store Services fee. This is how it works:

• Tier 1: Developers pay a 5% commission on in-app purchases. However, they only get basic features like app reviews and privacy labels. Many helpful features—like automatic app updates—are missing in this tier.

• Tier 2: To access all App Store features, developers must opt for this tier, which has a 13% commission. By default, apps will be placed in Tier 2, but developers can switch to Tier 1 if they choose.

Additionally, Apple is rolling out the Core Technology Commission, which takes a 5% cut on outside purchases from apps in the App Store. For developers under Apple’s alternate business terms, there’s a separate fee of €0.50 for each annual install over 1 million.

Upcoming Changes

By January 1, 2026, Apple plans to standardize its business model for developers in the EU. This transition includes changing the Core Technology Fee to align with the new commission structure for digital goods.

Background Context

These changes come after the EU fined Apple €500 million (around $570 million) for its "anti-steering" practices that have been deemed to violate DMA rules. This penalty reflects broader concerns about how tech giants operate and enforce their policies. If Apple doesn’t pay the fine next month, it will begin accruing interest.

Experts in technology and law suggest that this shift could reshape the app landscape, helping developers gain better access to their customer base. Users on social media have mixed feelings about these changes. Some see them as a step in the right direction for fairer app store practices, while others worry about increased costs for developers.

Future Outlook

Apple intends to contest the EU’s ruling. The company believes the Commission’s requirements are excessive, as stated in its response to media outlets. The EU Commission will now review Apple’s proposed modifications before deciding on any further fines for non-compliance.

These developments mark an essential phase for the tech industry. As regulation increases, it’ll be interesting to see how it impacts both developers and users in the coming years.

For more on the Digital Markets Act, you can check the official EU resources.

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