Tag: App Store

  • Apple’s new App Store rules hint at lower fees worldwide

    Apple’s new App Store rules hint at lower fees worldwide

    Apple recently updated its App Store rules in the European Union, and the changes are tricky to understand. Hidden in the details is a clue that Apple might lower its standard commission from 30% to 20% for developers everywhere. This would be the first time Apple has cut its fee for all developers, which could help ease tensions with regulators fighting its practices.

    The new EU rules are complex, making it hard to know when they apply. For example, small businesses in the App Store’s program could see their commission drop from 15% to 10%. Meanwhile, other developers in the EU might pay 20% instead of 30% for in-app purchases. This difference raises questions—why would EU developers get a better deal than others?

    Some believe Apple might soon make the 20% rate global to stay fair and competitive. These changes come as Apple faces legal battles worldwide over its App Store policies. A lower commission could rebuild trust with developers and calm regulators. However, critics like Epic Games’ CEO Tim Sweeney call the new rules unfair, saying they still hurt competition.

    The EU is reviewing whether Apple’s updates follow the Digital Markets Act. If Apple goes global with a 20% commission, it could simplify things for developers and users. For now, the company’s complex terms keep everyone guessing about its next move.

  • Apple updates App Store rules in Europe to follow new law

    Apple updates App Store rules in Europe to follow new law

    Apple recently changed its App Store rules in the European Union to meet the requirements of the Digital Markets Act (DMA). These updates, announced on June 26, 2025, allow app developers to tell users about other payment options outside the App Store, like buying directly from their websites.

    Starting with iOS 18.6 and iPadOS 18.6, users will see a new interface for installing apps from alternative app stores or developer websites. Later in 2025, Apple plans to offer a tool for developers to start these downloads directly within their apps.

    However, Apple warns that these changes might make iPhones and iPads less secure, raising risks of scams or harmful content. Despite these updates, Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney criticized Apple, calling the changes “unlawful” and a “malicious compliance scheme.”

    He argues that Apple’s new fees, like a 5% commission on external purchases, hurt developers who use other payment methods. Sweeney says these rules make it tough for developers to compete fairly and limit features like automatic app updates.

    Apple disagrees with the European Commission’s push for these changes and plans to appeal, but it will follow the rules for now. The EU will review Apple’s efforts to ensure it meets DMA standards. Developers can use the new tools right away, but many are waiting to see if the fees will change.

    Source/Via

  • New bill aims to limit Google and Apple’s App Store control

    New bill aims to limit Google and Apple’s App Store control

    A group of U.S. senators from both parties has brought back a bill to reduce the control Apple and Google have over mobile app stores. The Open App Markets Act, first introduced in 2021, wants to make the app market fairer for developers and users.

    The bill is led by Senators Marsha Blackburn, Richard Blumenthal, Mike Lee, Amy Klobuchar, and Dick Durbin. The proposed law would force Apple and Google to allow apps to be installed from other sources, not just their stores.

    It would also let developers use different payment systems and stop companies from punishing developers who offer better prices elsewhere. Senator Blumenthal said, “Apple and Google have built walls to block competition and raise prices for users.” The goal is to encourage more choices and lower costs.

    The bill has support from companies like Spotify and Epic Games, who say it will help small businesses and spark new ideas. However, Apple and Google argue that their rules protect user safety. The bill still needs to pass Congress and get the President’s approval to become law. It faces challenges, as tech companies spent millions to block it last time. With growing concerns about tech giants, this bill could change how app stores work.

  • Apple fights court’s tough App Store ruling in Epic Games dispute

    Apple fights court’s tough App Store ruling in Epic Games dispute

    Apple is pushing back against a court’s strict order in its ongoing legal clash with Epic Games, the creators of Fortnite. The company filed an appeal on June 24, 2025, asking the Ninth Circuit Court to overturn a decision that stops Apple from charging fees on in-app purchases made outside its App Store.

    Apple also wants a new judge if the case returns to the lower court, arguing the current judge, Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers, might not be fair due to past rulings. The fight started in 2021 when Epic won a court order allowing developers to guide users to other payment options.

    However, in April 2025, Judge Rogers found Apple didn’t follow this order and was acting unfairly by still charging a 27% fee on outside payments. She issued a stronger rule, banning Apple from collecting any fees on these transactions, calling it a punishment for not obeying the court.

    Apple says this new rule goes too far, hurts its business, and isn’t fair under California law or the U.S. Constitution. The company argues it has spent years building a safe and trusted App Store, and this order could harm users and developers.

    Epic Games, meanwhile, stayed quiet on the latest appeal. Apple’s appeal aims to protect its control over the App Store while keeping the platform secure. The outcome could shape how app stores work and affect developers and users alike.

  • Apple to tweak App Store rules in Europe to Dodge more fines

    Apple to tweak App Store rules in Europe to Dodge more fines

    Apple is in a rush to avoid new penalties from the European Union over its App Store policies. Back in April 2025, the EU fined Apple €500 million for breaking the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which aims to make tech companies play fair. The issue? Apple’s rules stopped app developers from telling users about cheaper payment options outside the App Store.

    The EU gave Apple 60 days to fix these rules, with a deadline of June 26, 2025. Now, Apple is in last-minute talks with EU officials to ease its “anti-steering” restrictions, which limit developers from guiding users to external payment systems. A report suggests Apple might soon announce changes, like letting developers add links to their websites for payments, though it still charges a 27% fee on those transactions.

    The EU is also eyeing Apple’s Core Technology Fee, a 50-cent charge per app install per year, which developers must pay. Discussions have touched on this fee, but no clear changes have been confirmed yet. If Apple’s tweaks satisfy the EU, it could avoid more fines. If not, the EU has the power to hit Apple with bigger penalties for ignoring DMA rules.

    Apple’s already made some changes, like allowing one external payment link in the EU, but the EU wants more freedom for developers and users. The outcome of these talks will decide if Apple can keep its App Store model or face tougher consequences.

  • Apple faces legal trouble and plans new Apple Watch Ultra 3 for 2025

    Apple faces legal trouble and plans new Apple Watch Ultra 3 for 2025

    Apple is dealing with two big news stories right now. First, a U.S. appeals court has decided that a lawsuit against Apple can move forward. This lawsuit claims that Apple has made it hard for other companies to compete with its Apple Pay system.

    The court said there is enough evidence for the case to continue, which means Apple will have to answer these claims in court. The lawsuit says Apple uses its control over iPhones and Apple Pay to keep other payment services out, which could hurt both customers and other businesses.

    At the same time, Apple is getting ready to launch the Apple Watch Ultra 3. After some rumors that Apple might skip this model, new reports say the Apple Watch Ultra 3 will come out in 2025. This new smartwatch is expected to have better features and improved performance, but details are still limited. Apple fans who were worried about missing out on a new Ultra model can now look forward to its release next year.

    In summary, Apple is facing a serious legal challenge over how it runs Apple Pay, while also planning to release a new and improved Apple Watch Ultra 3 in 2025. Both stories show that Apple is dealing with challenges but is also working on new products for its customers.

  • Apple App Store helps businesses and people make money

    Apple App Store helps businesses and people make money

    This week, Apple explained the size of the App Store for businesses and app-making people. Reports say the App Store has supported companies and workers worldwide in gathering over 1.3 trillion dollars.

    The company has made this announcement just days before their main developer event, WWDC. They want to demonstrate the significance of the App Store for everyone such as large companies, small teams and even solo app makers. With the App Store, users can introduce their ideas to millions and make money in the process.

    Apple also explains that the App Store plays a role in providing employment and aided many people in growing their professions. App development allows companies of all sizes to introduce their products to more customers and contribute to their growth. Apple takes pride in the App Store’s benefits for so many users and they intend to improve it for everyone going forward.

    This story shows how much our phones and business activities have changed because of the App Store. You can get apps from Play Store, but it is also where people achieve their dreams, get new clients and make money. The company is still dedicated to supporting the big and valuable community of developers.

  • New iPhone will charge faster and App Store helps developers worldwide

    New iPhone will charge faster and App Store helps developers worldwide

    The iPhone 17, under development by Apple, is expected to have support for up to 50 watts of MagSafe wireless charging. Currently, it tops out at 15 watts, but this could change.

    Other parts of Apple’s world are the App Store and developers everywhere. Recently, a study found that the app store lets people from all regions access apps from developers in various countries. This helps both small and large companies expand their business. The study also highlighted the security and safety Apple offers for everyone.

    Apple keeps progressing by making its gadgets better, also giving people around the globe a helping hand. For example, the iPhone 17 might allow quicker charging, while the App Store enables developers to introduce their ideas to a large group of people.

  • Apple’s US App Store crossed $400 billion in developer earnings and sales in 2024

    Apple’s US App Store crossed $400 billion in developer earnings and sales in 2024

    Developers on the United States App Store made over $400 billion during the year 2024. We can see that many people make and use apps on the platform due to its success.

    Apps created for iPhones, iPads and additional Apple devices brought in significant earnings for developers on the US App Store last year. Including cash from purchasing, subscribing and selling in the app store. The rise is the result of Apple gadgets being used for apps and digital content.

    Millions of customers have made the App Store important for developers to reach them. Apple continues to update the store’s offerings to let developers make better apps and expand their businesses. This achievement indicates that the App Store is still a key player in the app business.

    Because Apple pays attention to security, privacy and quality, users continue to feel safe in using their apps and services. As more people trust the App Store, they spend more money and this is good for developers and Apple.

    All in all, the US App Store reaching $400 billion by 2024 demonstrates its relevance as a place where apps succeed and users discover valuable offers. The report also reveals that more people are buying software from their mobiles.

  • Tap to pay on iPhone expands to more countries and Apple says App Store rules save users money

    Tap to pay on iPhone expands to more countries and Apple says App Store rules save users money

    Apple is helping individuals all over the world use their iPhones to complete payments. The Tap to Pay feature is being introduced in 18 additional countries, the company revealed. This means businesses have the ability to accept transactions using just their iPhones.

    It is already offered in the US, UK and Australia and shortly, residents of Europe, Asia and similar regions will be able to try it too. By using just their iPhones, even small food and retail businesses can make sure all their payments are safe and easy.

    As one more point, Apple updated the community on its App Store. According to the company, its policies have played a big role in saving users billions. Every app is vetted by Apple before it is placed on the App Store to confirm that it is safe and not designed to get people to spend unwisely.

    Following these rules has stopped a lot of scams, keeping users from losing their hard-earned money, according to Apple. Over the last four years, the company has detected and blocked more than $7 billion worth of suspicious transactions, it says. Because more countries around the world now have Tap to Pay and the App Store protects users, Apple says it is dedicated to making its devices easy and secure for everyone to use.

    Source/Via