A few days after Apple allowed iOS users in the EU to use third-party app stores, the company announced additional changes related to how developers can distribute their apps. Now, developers who meet certain criteria will be able to allow users to download apps from their websites.
The Web Distribution option will be available this spring. In fact, it will allow developers to completely bypass the app distribution ecosystem for their own apps. To comply with the requirements, developers must agree to new App Store rules, according to which they pay a commission for each user installation after certain threshold values. They must also be a member of the Apple Developer Program and have a good reputation for at least 2 years. Among other criteria - they will need to "have an app that had more than one million first-year installations on iOS in the EU for the previous calendar year."
By setting certain rules to support downloads from the internet, Apple hopes to minimize the risk of users installing pirated or malicious apps. However, the company is criticized for seemingly adhering only to the letter of the EU Digital Markets Act, not its spirit. Therefore, attempts to control app downloads from the internet may also come under scrutiny from regulatory authorities.
Furthermore, Apple now allows developers to launch app stores that exclusively contain their own apps. Previously, they were required to also offer apps from other developers. Thus, companies like Epic Games, Xbox, and Meta may have app stores for iOS that only contain their own programs and games.
At the same time, developers will have more options regarding how they can direct users to an external page to complete the purchase transaction of digital goods and services. Apple provided design templates for in-app promotional activities, discounts, and offers, but now they are optional. This means that companies like Spotify and Netflix can now develop links to their websites (and potentially avoid 30% commission Apple charges on subscriptions through in-app purchases).
Source: Engadget
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