Apple Avoids More EU Fines After App Store Changes

Apple’s recent adjustments to the App Store have satisfied European regulators, helping the tech giant avoid further daily fines under the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). According to Reuters, the European Commission will approve these changes in the coming weeks.

What Changes Did Apple Make?

To comply with the DMA, Apple updated its App Store policies in June:

• Removed Anti-Steering Rules: Developers can direct users to external purchase options outside the App Store.
• Enabled Third-Party Payments: Apps can use non-Apple payment methods for digital goods.
• Introduced New Fee Tiers: Developers can now choose between two service tiers:

- Tier 1: 5% fee – excludes features like ratings, marketing, automatic updates.

- Tier 2: 13% fee (or 10% for Small Business Program) – includes all App Store features.

Apple also replaced its controversial Core Technology Fee (CTF) with a new Core Technology Commission (CTC). There’s a 2% initial acquisition fee and a maximum combined fee cap of 20% for developers using full services.

What Happens Next?

By January 1, 2026, Apple will adopt a unified business model that includes:

• A service fee (Tier 1 or Tier 2)
• A 2% acquisition fee
• The 5% Core Technology Commission

There will be no per-install fees in the new model. Small Business Program participants will pay between 10–15%, while others may pay up to 20% based on services used.

Why It Matters

These changes prevent Apple from facing potential daily fines of up to €50 million, which the European Commission had threatened if the company failed to comply with the DMA.

Though Apple has already been fined €500 million for earlier violations, the company has appealed the decision and is also contesting the anti-steering requirements.