Apple adjusts App Store policies in the EU to comply with new regulations

Apple has introduced new changes to its App Store in response to the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) to avoid further penalties. A new tier system for the Store Services fee has been implemented, offering developers a choice between two levels of access. The cheaper Tier 1 comes with a 5% commission on in-app purchases, but developers in this tier will miss out on many features like automatic app updates. Tier 2, offering full access to App Store features, requires a 13% commission. Additionally, Apple has added a new Core Technology Commission that charges 5% on external purchases made within apps distributed on the App Store. Apple also plans to transition to a single business model starting January 2026, moving to a 5% fee on all digital goods. These changes come after Apple was fined €500 million for violating the DMA with its anti-steering practices, which limit how developers can guide users to make external purchases. Apple has signaled its intention to appeal this ruling, while the European Commission will review the proposed changes before making a final decision on further penalties.