According to information from Bloombergthe European Commission is preparing to fine Apple for alleged non-compliance with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) regarding its App Store policies. Despite the substantial changes Apple has made since iOS 17.4, the regulator considers the changes insufficient to allow developers to guide users to cheaper options outside the App Store.
A new fine in sight
Last June, the EU ruled that Apple had violated the DMA due to its anticompetitive policies, which prevent developers from informing users about alternative payment options or directing them to external sites for lower prices. down. The European Commission has ruled that developers should have the freedom to inform customers of alternative prices, offer promotions and allow purchases outside the App Store.
In response, Apple adjusted its App Store rules for Europe in August to ease tensions. These adjustments allowed European developers to communicate discounts and promotions that redirect users outside of the App Store. This change means developers can now announce deals without signing Apple’s updated developer terms or paying the base technology fee. However, Apple still requires developers to report external transactions and pay both an upfront acquisition fee and a store services fee, which is not to the EU’s liking because, ultimately, developers do not pay less.
However, the sanction announced by Bloomberg has not yet been finalized. It could come before the departure of the current competition commissioner, Margrethe Vestager, scheduled for this month, or just after. Concerning the amount, it is also completely unclear, the EU having already imposed a fine of 2 billion dollars on Apple for anti-competitive actions linked to third-party music services. Under the DMA, Apple could face fines of up to 10% of its global annual revenue.
