To avoid further penalties under the European Union’s Digital Markets Act, Apple has announced sweeping changes to its App Store guidelines for the EU.
However, it’s not happy with the EU’s additional demands and plans to appeal against this.
Apple to retire Core Technology Fee in 2026
Apple first updated the EU App Store policies in August 2024 to comply with the Digital Markets Act. It eased the linking rules for developers, enabling them to send customers elsewhere than the App Store for purchases. And it attached new fees for sales that result from the links.
Yet, the EU ruled that Apple did not make enough changes and slapped it with hefty fines under the DMA for non-compliance. So, Apple has once again announced major policy changes for the App Store in the EU.
Firstly, Apple will allow developers to promote offers across all channels. They are no longer limited to only linking to a static URL in their apps. Instead, they can use multiple URLs to link to external websites, other apps, and even alternative app stores. Plus, they can use URLs with tracking parameters and redirects. Developers can also design the interface for such links and promotions.
By January 1, 2026, Apple will move all developers to a new single business model in the EU. As part of this, the company will drop the Core Technology Fee of €0.50 per app install and replace it with the Core Technology Commission. Developers will then have to pay 5% commission to the company on sales made outside the App Store, including through alternative marketplaces.
Developers who signed up for Apple’s Alternative Terms Addendum for Apps will continue paying the €0.50 per download fee until January 1, 2026.
App Store Service Fee gets a cheaper new tier
Apple is splitting the Store Services Fee into two tiers. Worldwide, it offers developers only one option, but it’s making an exception for the EU. Developers can opt for Tier 1 by paying a reduced store services fee of 5%. Under this, they get access to a limited set of App Store services, such as App distribution and delivery. It misses out on several options, like automatic app updates and downloads, phased releases, ratings & reviews, search suggestions, etc.
In Tier 2, developers gain access to the full range of App Store features. However, they’ll need to pay a 13% service fee — reduced to 10% for developers enrolled in the Small Business Program. By default, all apps will be on Tier 2, but developers are free to switch tiers once every quarter.
Additionally, apps using the StoreKit External Purchase Link Entitlement will now pay a 2% fee on the sale of digital goods and services made within six months of the user downloading the app. This will only apply to new customers, not existing users. Developers enrolled in the Small Business Program will be exempt from this charge.
Apple will appeal against the EU’s decision
Apple also issued a statement to 9to5Mac saying, “The European Commission is requiring Apple to make a series of additional changes to the App Store. We disagree with this outcome and plan to appeal.” The company has until July 7 to file its appeal.