Apple Isn’t Ready to Release Its Grip on the App Store
Jan 30, 2024
auto_awesome
Apple's announcement of changes for European users, allowing them to shop for apps outside of the App Store and use other browsers on iOS. Discussion on the European Union's aim to increase competition with the Digital Markets Act. Backlash from developers and legal disputes over Apple's new policies.
Apple's new changes in response to EU rules allow users to shop for apps outside of the App Store and use alternative browsers on iOS, but critics argue that these changes do not go far enough to comply with the new regulations.
Despite allowing alternative app stores and reducing commissions, Apple still maintains significant control over apps and new App Stores on its devices, which critics argue stifles competition and innovation.
Deep dives
Apple's App Store changes in response to new EU rules
Apple announced sweeping changes for its European users due to new EU rules. These changes allow users to shop for apps outside of Apple's App Store and use browsers other than Safari on iOS with their full features. However, critics argue that these changes do not go far enough to comply with the new EU rules. Apple's new fee system for developers also reinforces its hold on the App Store ecosystem, which includes a 30% cut on purchases made within the app. The EU's Digital Markets Act aims to break open these platforms and provide more competition.
Controversy over Apple's control despite App Store changes
While Apple's recent changes to comply with the EU's Digital Markets Act have allowed alternative app stores and reduced commissions, there are concerns about the level of control Apple still holds. Apple maintains control over apps and new App Stores operating on its devices, citing privacy and security risks. Developers are also charged a technology fee for downloads made through Apple's App Store or an alternative after one million downloads. Critics argue that these caveats prevent developers from benefiting from the changes, stifling competition and innovation.
In response to new rules, the iPhone maker announced drastic changes for users in Europe. But criticism is mounting that Apple’s new system only recreates old problems. Thanks for listening to WIRED. Talk to you next time for more stories from WIRED.com and read this story here.