August 8th, 2024

Apple announces new fees for apps in the EU that link to the web for purchases

Apple has revised its fee structure for EU apps linking to external purchases, introducing a two-tiered system with lower fees for developers, while exempting existing subscriptions from these changes.

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Apple announces new fees for apps in the EU that link to the web for purchases

Apple has announced a new fee structure for apps in the European Union (EU) that link to external websites for purchases, following a ruling that deemed its previous anti-steering policies in violation of the Digital Markets Act. The updated rules eliminate many restrictions on how developers can link out, allowing for dynamic URLs and the option to open links within the app itself. Developers can now link to alternative payment methods without agreeing to alternative business terms, avoiding the Core Technology Fee. However, a new two-tiered fee structure has been introduced, consisting of an Initial Acquisition Fee and a Store Services Fee. The Initial Acquisition Fee is set at 5% for new users, while the Store Services Fee is 10% for those under alternative business terms, or 20% for those under standard terms. The fees apply to new purchases of digital goods and services, with existing subscriptions exempt. This new structure aims to lower fees for developers compared to previous rates, which could exceed 17%. Apple has made these terms available for review on its developer website, along with an updated fee calculator.

- Apple is changing its fee structure for EU apps linking to external purchases.

- Developers can now use dynamic URLs and open links within their apps.

- A two-tiered fee system includes an Initial Acquisition Fee and a Store Services Fee.

- The new fees are lower than previous rates, benefiting developers.

- Existing subscriptions are exempt from the new fee structure.

Link Icon 5 comments
By @turndown - 2 months
I really cannot until this business model FAANG has come up with in the past 20 years where they are somehow owed money by developers for creating services and products for a platform is completely repudiated. I owe you money because a user clicked a link in my app and then bought something? I am so glad I have never written a line of code for an Apple product.
By @progbits - 2 months
Wow they really are impudent aren't they.

Hope the EU fines hit them really hard. Obviously they are trying to squeeze out as much money as possible while they can and then just say oopsie and pay some of it back. So the fine must be higher than their entire profit from this otherwise everyone else will be trying the same.

By @nox101 - 2 months
I don't really get it. Apple wants an acquisition fee? Why? Should my car manufacturer be able to demand an acquisition fee to all the stores it takes me in the first year? Should my refrigerator be able to demand an acquisition fee from every grocery store?
By @nazgu1 - 2 months
UE is still conducting its investigation, and Apple already started to retreat from its new policies. I think it will be interesting to watch next parts of this saga