Apple has announced significant changes to its iPhone app store in Europe in compliance with upcoming European regulations, Associated Press reports.
Starting in early March, Apple will allow iPhone users in Europe to use alternative app stores and enabling developers to offer alternative payment systems. Apple will also lower the fees it collects from developers in Europe.
The changes are aimed at complying with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in the European Union. The revisions in Europe will bring down the commission on in-app transactions to 10-17%, compared to the 15-30% planned for the rest of the world.
Apple will introduce a “core technology fee” for installing apps on the iPhone in Europe, but it won’t charge commissions on in-app transactions done through alternative payment systems in the region.
Apple expressed concerns about security risks if the iPhone is opened up to outsiders. Apple’s changes in response to European regulations may set a precedent for similar adjustments in other regions.
