For several years, the App Store has been playing on transparency, we find visibility on in-app purchases, the collection of information, the developer’s website… Soon, Apple will require developers to display a telephone number, an email address and the address of their headquarters. Information that will be displayed on all application sheets on the App Store in Europe.
The information will be displayed at the bottom of the application sheet
Apple recently reminded developers in the European Union of an important new obligation: starting October 16, 2024, they will have to submit their “status” in order to continue distributing their applications on the App Store. This new directive does not come from the Cupertino company, but rather stems from the Digital Services Act (DSA) of the European Union, a law designed to better inform users about the identity of developers, whether they are independent or representatives of a company.
Specifically, developers will now have to display information such as their physical address, phone number and email address on the App Store page dedicated to their applications. This measure aims to increase transparency and provide users with clear data on the entity or person responsible for the applications they are considering downloading.
The new requirement is already raising concerns, particularly among independent developers and small businesses, who are concerned about the disclosure of their personal information. Some fear the impact it could have on their privacy and security. For example, someone who feels “ripped off” or “misunderstood” after a support request could go directly to the developer’s physical address to settle their accounts.
Apple will have to verify the information
To ensure the accuracy of the information submitted, Apple will perform a systematic review when a new app or update is submitted. This additional validation process may increase the workload of the App Store teams, which could potentially slow down the validation of apps and updates.
Apple also clarified that this information will only be displayed on European App Stores, suggesting that the company may not be entirely on board with this mandatory exposure of personal data beyond EU borders.
Finally, starting February 17, 2025, apps that do not comply with this display obligation will be removed from the App Store in the European Union. They can only be reinstated once the necessary information has been submitted and verified. This deadline is approaching, and developers therefore have a limited time to prepare for these new regulatory requirements.