- Under EU pressure, Apple will reluctantly open iPhone ecosystem.
- Also reducing App Store fees to 20% for some developers to convince regulators.
- With ongoing battles ahead, further ecosystem changes seem inevitable for Apple.
After years resisting regulatory demands, Apple announced it will begin reluctantly opening up parts of its historically closed iPhone ecosystem – but only in Europe, for now. This includes finally allowing alternative app stores thanks to new laws going into effect this March.
Lower charges
In Europe, developers will have the option to distribute iOS apps without relying solely on Apple’s proprietary App Store. Additionally, the App Store itself will now only take a reduced commission of up to 20% on payments, down from the longstanding 30% fee.
Apps reaching over one million downloads will face a small per download charge, whether using Apple’s store or another.
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Trying to convince European regulators?
The changes represent major concessions from Apple to appease European regulators as legal and political scrutiny continues to intensify globally over its business practices and fees.
While forced to become more open in Europe, Apple did not indicate that expanded store access or lower App Store commissions are imminent elsewhere. But with ongoing regulatory battles ahead, further reluctant shifts to its closed iOS approach seem inevitable for the tech giant.
