{"id":2508441,"date":"2024-03-08T10:34:34","date_gmt":"2024-03-08T15:34:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/platoaistream.net\/plato-data\/new-app-store-rules-from-apple-same-old-concerns-for-developers\/"},"modified":"2024-03-08T10:34:34","modified_gmt":"2024-03-08T15:34:34","slug":"new-app-store-rules-from-apple-same-old-concerns-for-developers","status":"publish","type":"station","link":"https:\/\/platoaistream.net\/plato-data\/new-app-store-rules-from-apple-same-old-concerns-for-developers\/","title":{"rendered":"New App Store rules from Apple, same old concerns for developers"},"content":{"rendered":"

Apple, famous for its tightly controlled App Store experience on iOS and iPadOS devices, recently implemented a series of last-minute policy changes that have generated a wave of mixed reactions from the developer community.<\/p>\n

Apple, which has been under fire from the DMA, was recently required to introduce iOS sideloading<\/a> changes and alternative app stores<\/a>. Today, the tech giant has made some more changes to the App Store\u2019s policy to comply with the DMA\u2019s new rules<\/a>.<\/p>\n

While some developers see these updates as a positive step towards increased transparency and flexibility, others remain wary of the potential limitations and persisting concerns surrounding in-app purchase fees.<\/p>\n

Apple App Store changes<\/h2>\n

Apple wants to increase the transparency surrounding how in-app purchase options work.<\/p>\n

In response to this change, developers will be required to clearly explain what users will get when making in-app purchases. They must also show how those purchases might differ in pricing or functionality compared to buying directly from the developer\u2019s website or alternative platforms<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Rules about how apps deal with non-fungible tokens (NFTs)<\/strong> are now more clearly defined. Apps are permitted to allow users to view and browse their NFT collections. However, any transactions related to buying or selling NFTs within an app must continue to use Apple\u2019s in-app purchase systems \u2013 and will, therefore, incur the associated commission fees.<\/p>\n

\"New
Apple recently implemented new App Store policy changes in response to regulatory pressure<\/strong><\/em> (Image credit<\/a>)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Developers gain a new option with the ability to create \u2018unlisted apps\u2019<\/strong>. These apps cannot be found through standard searches on the App Store. Instead, users will need a direct link from the developer<\/strong> in order to access and install the app. This feature could potentially allow for more private or specialized app distribution models.<\/p>\n

While not a direct change to the App Store<\/strong> itself, Apple appears to be relaxing longstanding restrictions on third-party browser engines<\/strong>. This change could have significant long-term impacts on how apps and web-based experiences can function and interact within the iOS ecosystem.<\/p>\n

Where is the catch?<\/h3>\n

While some of these changes provide new opportunities, a significant sticking point remains\u2014Apple\u2019s in-app purchase commission<\/strong>. Developers who facilitate in-app transactions are subject to Apple\u2019s commission, often up to 30% of the sale price.<\/p>\n

This cut into revenue has been a consistent source of contention amongst developers, with some opting to either avoid in-app features or raise prices to offset the costs.<\/p>\n

What are developers saying?<\/h2>\n

The response from the developer community to these changes has been varied.<\/p>\n

Some developers express deep frustration with the continued obligation to utilize Apple\u2019s in-app purchase systems<\/strong>. Many consider the commission fees exorbitant and an unnecessary burden on their businesses.<\/p>\n

Others, while not thrilled about the commissions, understand Apple\u2019s perspective. They recognize that Apple provides a valuable platform and marketplace for their apps.<\/p>\n

Developers see the potential in \u2018unlisted apps\u2019<\/strong> and possible future relaxation of browser engine rules. These changes could open doors for specialized app distribution and more unique web-based experiences within the iOS ecosystem.<\/p>\n

\"New
Developer responses to the App Store changes are mixed<\/strong><\/em> (Image credit<\/a>)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

DMA \u2018rules\u2019<\/h2>\n

Apple\u2019s adjustments to App Store policies don\u2019t occur in a vacuum. The company faces intense antitrust scrutiny and mounting legal pressure in numerous territories and DMA decisions<\/a> on gatekeepers<\/a> have led to lots of changes for tech giants.<\/p>\n

As a matter of fact, all six designated gatekeepers<\/strong>, Alphabet, Apple, Amazon, Meta, Microsoft, and ByteDance, had to go through a series of changes.<\/p>\n

Here is a quick rundown:<\/p>\n

Alphabet (Google)<\/h3>\n