Apple to Open EU App Store, Introduce Cloud Gaming and Contactless Payments

Apple to Open App Store in EU, Introduce Cloud Gaming and Contactless Payment Benefits

Apple has announced plans to open the App Store in the European Union (EU), allowing app sideloading and introducing new opportunities for cloud gaming services and contactless payments. This approach has sparked some criticism, with concerns raised about the associated costs.

EU Business Terms and App Distribution

Under the new EU business terms, iOS apps distributed through the App Store or other app marketplaces will incur a fee of 0.50 euros for every installation exceeding one million per year. However, developers who choose to exclusively sell their apps through the App Store will be exempt from this fee. Apple estimates that less than 1% of developers will be affected.

Apple’s Compliance with Digital Market Laws

Apple Fellow Phil Schiller has stated that these changes comply with the requirements of the EU’s digital market law. He emphasizes that Apple’s top priority is to provide the safest and best user experience while adhering to necessary regulations.

Customer Benefits and Privacy Measures

Customers now have the option to use external payment systems to purchase software for iOS devices. However, Apple is committed to maintaining user privacy and security. To achieve this, they have implemented various measures such as app certification, developer authentication for marketplaces, and the ability to choose third-party contactless payment apps as the default option. Apple will also notify users about alternative payment processing and external transactions.

Expanded Opportunities for Developers

Developers can now offer apps through their own stores and use their own payment processing systems. Apple plans to provide over 600 new APIs to support app development outside of the Apple ecosystem. Additionally, developers can request interoperability with iPhone and iOS software features.

App Store Refunds and Changes

Apple has clarified its refund policy, stating that refunds cannot be provided for payments made through alternative payment providers. Furthermore, certain App Store features, such as family sharing, are not compatible with apps downloaded from outside the store.

Game Streaming Services and Default Browser Selection

Apple has opened the App Store for game streaming services, allowing developers to submit a single app that can stream all games available in the catalog. Additionally, a new selection screen will be introduced for European users, enabling them to choose their default browser when opening Safari on iOS 17.4 or above.

Criticism and Future Challenges

Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney has criticized Apple’s plans as a case of “malicious compliance with new regulations.” However, it is important to note that Epic Games also imposes its own fees on games distributed through its platform. Critics argue that Apple’s plans do not fully achieve the goals of the digital market law in terms of competition and fairness.

Implementation and Availability

These new measures are scheduled to be implemented in March 2024 and will be available in 27 EU countries. Apple plans to provide additional information to help EU users understand and navigate the changes, including best practices for app downloads and payments outside the App Store.

Overall, Apple’s decision to open the App Store in the EU brings both opportunities and challenges for developers and customers. Apple aims to comply with regulatory requirements while striking a balance between user privacy and security.

Source: Computerworld