Breton: Apple Faces ‘Strong Action’ If Changes Don’t Work

(CTN News) – Apple will face strong action if it fails to comply with upcoming European Union regulations regarding its App Store, according to the bloc’s industry chief.

A move designed to comply with the upcoming Digital Markets Act (DMA) in the EU, Apple will soon allow software developers to distribute their apps via alternative stores.

As of early March, iPhone developers will have the option of offering alternative app stores and opting out of Apple’s in-app payment system, which charges commissions of up to 30%. There are, however, critics who claim the changes do not go far enough, arguing Apple’s fee structure is still unfair, and that the changes may be in violation of the Digital Marketing Act.

During an exclusive interview with Reuters, EU industry chief Thierry Breton revealed Apple’s plans: “The DMA will ensure that the internet is open to competition so that digital markets remain fair and open.” As of 7 March, we will evaluate companies’ proposals, based on feedback from third parties.”

According to him, “if the proposed solutions do not meet our expectations, we will not hesitate to take strong action.” Apple’s new EU regime will still require developers to submit apps for review for obvious fraud and cybersecurity risks.

Furthermore, users of Apple devices in the EU will be able to choose their default web browsers and contactless payment apps, which means they can make contactless payments without using Pay.

Despite this, even if developers choose not to use Apple’s App Store or payment system,

They will still be required to pay a “core technology fee” of 50 cents per user account annually. Most likely, companies like Meta and Spotify, which have millions of free users, will be hit harder than smaller developers. Both companies didn’t comment right away. Paulo Trezentos, CEO of Aptoide, said, “It was a surprise to us. We had heard rumors of some changes, but we never anticipated they would be so extensive.

We are preparing to submit formal feedback to the European Commission regarding the fees. This was definitely a good move, but the fees are still too high.” Apple’s announcements ahead of the compliance deadline on 7 March have been noted by the European Commission, but we have no comment on them.

It is strongly recommended that designated gatekeepers test their proposals with third parties.”

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