Apple’s App Store Faces Criticism Amidst EU’s Digital Markets Act
Apple recently announced changes to its App Store to comply with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) regulations for digital markets. While some have praised the move, critics argue that the company’s requirements for alternative app stores are problematic. Xbox, a Microsoft-owned company, is the latest to question Apple’s plans.
According to the DMA regulations, platform owners like Apple and Google are required to open their systems to competitive app stores. However, Apple also mandates that these alternative stores have strict moderation rules and tools comparable to its own. Operators of these stores will also need to demonstrate access to a minimum amount, approximately 4.4 million PLN, to be used for payouts to developers. Apple has also introduced a new rule for developers, requiring them to pay a core technology fee of 2.50 PLN (approximately 0.54 euros) per installation after surpassing one million downloads in a year. This rule applies to both app distribution through Apple’s App Store and alternative app stores.
Tim Sweeney, the CEO of Epic Games, described Apple’s plan as a “deceptive new manifestation of malicious practices.” He further stated that Apple effectively forces developers to choose between exclusivity in the App Store or a new “also illegal and anticompetitive scheme” that includes new fees for downloads and additional taxes on payments that Apple itself does not handle. The App Store is a significant business for Apple, generating revenue through commissions ranging from 15% to 30% from developers. In the fiscal year 2022, Apple reported that the App Store ecosystem accounted for $1.1 trillion in billings and sales for creators.
In 2020, Epic Games removed Fortnite from the App Store after deliberately violating its guidelines and offering discounts to players making purchases outside of Apple’s ecosystem. The company recently announced plans to bring Fortnite back to iPhones and iPads in Europe once the DMA comes into effect and also intends to launch its own store for the iOS system. Similarly, Spotify, another vocal critic of Apple, plans to introduce its own payment system in its iOS app for European users.
FAQ
Q: What is the App Store?
A: The App Store is an online marketplace operated by Apple, where users can download applications for their iOS devices.
Q: What is the Digital Markets Act (DMA)?
A: The Digital Markets Act is a set of regulations implemented by the European Union to govern digital markets, requiring platforms like the App Store to open up to competition.
Q: What is the core technology fee?
A: The core technology fee is a charge introduced by Apple, which developers must pay after surpassing one million downloads in a year.
Suggested Related Links:
– Official App Store Website: [Link]
– Microsoft’s Main Application Page: [Link]
– Official Spotify Website: [Link]
The source of the article is from the blog mendozaextremo.com.ar