Apple vs Developers: Mobile Developers Unhappy with Apple's Recent Proposed Changes to App Store Policies

Apple's recent proposed changes to the App Store policies are receiving major backlash from multiple app developers across the globe, including Epic Games and Spotify. These include top-tier software in the market, such as Spotify and Epic Games. Apple has recently proposed policies to comply with the European Union's (EU) upcoming Digital Markets Act (DMA); however, developers are not exactly happy with this act from the tech giant.

This incident is not the first time Apple has been in the crosshairs of other developers; moreover, Epic Games clashed with the iPhone makers in the past, where they later took the case to the Supreme Court. That said, there is a lot more insight into this compliance one can uncover. 

Also Read: Apple To Take Epic Games To The Supreme Court

Apple's Proposed Changes Regarding the App Store Explored

Last week, Apple announced a few changes they are introducing to the App Store. These changes are a response to a new EU law called DMA. According to Money Control's report, this law states that companies with more than 45 million monthly active users and 75 billion euro market capitalization must make their apps compatible with rivals and let users choose which apps to pre-install on their new devices.

From March 2024, developers can offer alternative app stores on iPhones and avoid Apple's in-app payment system. This act charges commissions of up to 30%. However, there is a catch to this. Developers must submit apps to Apple for review for cybersecurity risks and other internet hazards. For this inspection, the iPhone makers will charge a 'core technology fee' to major app developers despite them not using Apple's in-house payment services. 

The changes will be implemented in iOS, Safari, and the App Store for users across 27 EU countries from March 2024. Apple has also stated that these changes were made after the tech giant was labelled as one of the six 'gatekeeper' companies by the new legislation. Alongside Apple, the other announced gatekeeper companies on the list are Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Meta, and TikTok. 

During the labelling, the legislation stated that they aim to make it easier for consumers to move between competing services where they are required to inter-operate their messaging applications with rivals. This also lends users the freedom they require regarding the usage of pre-installed apps on their devices. 

The Future of iPhone Users Post-DMA Act

Users are now allowed to download third-party app stores from external websites. Despite the freedom, developers of these third-party applications will still need to notarise their software by Apple. This ensures maximum security for users as they are more prone to unwanted threats from third parties.