Apple changed its policy in the European Union on Thursday and now allows developers to communicate with their customers outside of the App Store. The Commission had previously accused the iPhone maker in June of violating the Union’s technology rules.
The Commission had stated that in most of its terms and conditions, Apple only allows redirection via so-called “link-outs”. This means that app developers can include a link in their app that redirects the customer to a website where they can conclude a contract.
Apple said developers can now communicate and promote offers within their app that are available everywhere, not just on their own website.
However, Apple will introduce two new fees: an initial 5% acquisition fee for new users and a 10% store service fee for all sales made by app users across all platforms within 12 months of app installation.
Apple currently charges three types of fees: a core technology fee on less than 1% of apps, a reduced commission on all digital goods and services sold through the App Store, and an optional fee for payment and commerce services.
The two new fees replace the reduced commission on all digital goods and services sold through the App Store.
Spotify, which is at loggerheads with Apple over in-app links, said it is currently reviewing Apple’s proposal.
“At first glance, Apple is once again blatantly disregarding the basic requirements of the Digital Markets Act by charging a fee of up to 25% for basic communications with users,” said a Spotify spokesperson.
The Commission had previously criticised the fees that Apple charges for facilitating developers’ initial acquisition of new customers through the App Store, saying that they went beyond what was strictly necessary for such remuneration.
“We will evaluate Apple’s possible changes to its compliance measures, taking into account any feedback from the market, particularly from developers,” a Commission official said.
The charge against Apple is the Commission’s first under its landmark Digital Markets Act, which aims to limit the power of big tech companies. Violations of the DMA can result in a fine of up to 10% of a company’s annual global turnover.
