Apple‘s new plan to comply with European Union regulations has already been criticized by Epic Games, Spotify, and Microsoft, with the latter noting that changes in the App Store are a step in the wrong direction.
Apple has proposed a new Core Technology Fee for apps that want to be available through third-party app stores in the EU. This policy requires developers to pay €0.50 for each installation once the limit of 1 million downloads has been exceeded. This is in addition to the 17% retention as a commission from developers promoting their apps for iOS through third-party electronic stores.
“Apple’s new policy is a step in the wrong direction. We hope they consider the reactions to the proposed plan and work towards a future that includes everyone,” Sarah Bond, president of Xbox, wrote.
We believe constructive conversations drive change and progress towards open platforms and greater competition. Apple’s new policy is a step in the wrong direction. We hope they listen to feedback on their proposed plan and work towards a more inclusive future for all. https://t.co/mDRI5KPJf6
— BondSarahBond (@BondSarah_Bond) January 29, 2024
Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney characterized Apple’s changes in the App Store as more than garbage and said Apple’s plan to circumvent the new European law on Digital Markets was a subtle new case of “Malicious Compliance.” Sweeney has fought a long legal battle against Apple’s App Store policies and the payment process in the US.
Spotify also accused Apple of “extortion” with this new charge in the App Store and called on the regulatory authorities of the EU to take action. The European Commission says it will respond to Apple’s changes when the regulations officially take effect in March and promises “strong action” if Apple’s proposed solutions aren’t sufficient.
