Apple Revolutionizes App Store Policies, Allowing Developers to Use External Payment Methods
Apple is changing its guidelines for the App Store in the United States, enabling developers to include links to external payment methods. This decision comes after a prolonged legal battle between Apple and Epic Games, which has finally been settled by the Supreme Court.
In response to the court’s ruling, Apple has announced that it will modify the App Store guidelines to align with the outcome of the Epic Games vs Apple trial. However, the changes may fall short of many developers’ expectations.
Under the new guidelines, Apple will indeed allow developers to include links to alternative payment methods in their apps. But here’s the catch: similar to the case of dating apps in the Netherlands, developers will still be required to offer in-app purchases through the App Store’s payment system. This means that users will have the option to pay either through the App Store or by using an alternative method.
However, there’s a twist. Apple states that it will charge a commission of 27% on purchases made through alternative payment platforms, while small developers will pay a reduced commission of 12%. Currently, Apple charges commissions of 30% and 15% respectively. The company will also require regular reporting of qualifying off-app purchases to monitor and tax developers accordingly.
In other words, the main advantage of selling items and subscriptions outside the App Store becomes questionable, as Apple will still collect a commission. Considering that developers will also have to pay for the services of external payment platforms, the cost may even exceed the sale of the digital item through the App Store.
Epic Games to Challenge the Decision
In a statement provided to 9to5Mac, Tim Sweeney, the CEO of Epic Games, referred to Apple’s solution as “anti-competitive.” He highlighted the fact that developers cannot offer digital items at a lower price on their own websites after paying both Apple and another platform. Sweeney also criticized Apple’s requirement for users to open a general web browser window, forcing them to log in again and search for the desired item. He further accused Apple of using “scare tactics” to discourage the use of alternative payment platforms.
The exact implementation of the new App Store guidelines in the USA remains unknown. However, Tim Sweeney has assured that Epic Games will challenge Apple’s “inappropriate plan for compliance” in the District Court.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Regarding Apple’s App Store Policy Changes:
1. What are the latest changes to the App Store policy?
Apple has modified the guidelines for the App Store in the USA, allowing developers to include links to external payment methods.
2. Can developers now use alternative payment platforms?
Yes, developers will be able to include links to alternative payment methods in their apps.
3. Will users still be able to make purchases through the App Store?
Yes, users will have the option to pay through the App Store or choose an alternative payment method.
4. What fees will be charged by Apple?
Apple will charge a commission of 27% on purchases made through alternative payment platforms. Small developers will pay a reduced commission of 12%.
5. Will developers have to pay for the services of external payment platforms?
Yes, developers will have to pay for the services of external payment platforms, which may result in higher costs for them.
6. How is Epic Games responding to these changes?
Tim Sweeney, the CEO of Epic Games, has announced that the company will challenge the Supreme Court’s decision and considers the changes to be “anti-competitive.”
7. What are Epic Games’ main allegations against Apple?
Epic Games criticizes Apple for not allowing developers to offer digital items at a lower price on other platforms after paying commission to both Apple and the other platform. They also object to the cumbersome requirement of opening a web browser to make a purchase.
Recommended related links:
– App Store Official Website
– Epic Games Official Website
