Apple Modifies Proposed App Store Changes to Comply With New EU Rules After Criticism From Developers

Apple had announced proposals which allow software developers to distribute their apps to users in the EU outside of Apple's own App Store.

By Reuters | Updated: 7 March 2024 15:22 IST

Highlights

Apple has dropped a letter of credit demand for alternative app stores
Apple's initial proposals in wake of new EU rules were criticised by devs
The company had announced new App Store fees and conditions

Apple Modifies Proposed App Store Changes to Comply With New EU Rules After Criticism From Developers

Apple and other tech giants have to comply with the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA) by March 7

Photo Credit: Reuters

Apple has modified some of its proposals to comply with landmark EU tech rules after criticism from app developers, including dropping a demand that those who want to create alternative app marketplaces must have a stand-by letter of credit.

The company and five other tech giants have to comply by March 7 with the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which sets out a list of dos and don'ts aimed at reining in their power and creating a level playing field for rivals and more choices for users.

Apple had in January announced proposals which allow software developers to distribute their apps to users in the European Union outside of Apple's own App Store, as well as new fees and conditions.

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The iPhone maker said one change will now allow developers to sign up to the new terms announced two months ago at the developer account level.

"We've removed the corporate entity requirement that the Addendum must be signed by each membership that controls, is controlled by, or is under control with another membership," Apple said on its website late Tuesday.

It also created a one-time option for developers to terminate the Addendum under certain circumstances and switch back to Apple's standard business terms for their EU apps.

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Lastly, it scrapped a demand for a letter of credit from developers who want to create a rival app marketplace and introduced two eligibility criteria.

"A developer may operate an alternative app marketplace if their account has been in existence for two years and they have an established app business in the EU with more than 1 million First Annual Installs," Apple said.

Apple launched the iPad Pro (2022) and the iPad (2022) alongside the new Apple TV this week. We discuss the company's latest products, along with our review of the iPhone 14 Pro on Orbital, the Gadgets 360 podcast. Orbital is available on Spotify, Gaana, JioSaavn, Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music and wherever you get your podcasts.

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