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IN BRIEF
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For several years, Apple has been at the heart of intense debates around its practices on the App Store, deemed too restrictive by many developers and regulators. However, these rules, which ensure application control and user security, raise concerns about competition and innovation. As pressures intensify at both the European and American level, the question arises: will Apple ultimately give in to these demands for change and adapt its ecosystem to appease its detractors, or will it maintain its position inflexible to protect its economic model?
Growing Pressure from Regulators on Apple
World governments are putting increased pressure on Apple through various laws and legal proceedings aimed at loosening its control over the digital economy. The company is now starting to make concessions that could change the experience for iPhone users.
In Europe, a new law authorizes third-party app stores and app promotions. In response, Apple approved a competing app store from Epic Games, the maker of Fortnite, and allowed streaming app Spotify to list its summer discount inside its app.
Changes in the United States
In the United States, the Department of Justice accuses Apple of creating a monopoly on smartphones. As a result, Apple announced that it would allow apps to use its contactless transaction technology, the NFC chip, to offer customers in-store payments, hotel keys and loyalty cards.
Limited Concessions
These changes mark the first examples of Apple’s openness. The company has spent much of the past year testing the limits of what it must do to satisfy the demands of government authorities. Apple introduced alternative fees, developed new processes for collecting commissions, and added warnings for customers downloading from third-party app stores.
Reactions from Developers and Governments
App developers say the changes still show that Apple is more interested in protecting its business than following the law. In response, governments have stepped up their surveillance of Apple’s activities.
In June, the European Commission accused Apple of violating the Digital Markets Act 2022, giving regulators the power to force tech giants to change their business practices. In May, Apple returned to federal court in California to defend its requirement to charge app developers a commission of 27% of sales through alternative payment systems.
| Proposed Change | Status | Possible Impact |
| Authorization of third-party app stores | Approval in Europe | More diversity of apps |
| In-app promotions | Allowed | Competitive pricing options |
| Using the NFC chip | Announced in the United States | Facilitating in-store payments |
| Alternative fees | Set up | Reduced costs for developers |
| Warnings for third-party downloads | Set up | Better user information |
- Increased global pressure
- New laws in Europe
- Disputes in the United States
- Limited changes from Apple
- Developer reactions
FAQs
Q: Why is Apple making changes to its App Store policies?
A: Apple is facing pressure from governments and lawsuits to relax its control over the digital economy.
Q: What changes is Apple making in Europe?
A: Apple approved an app store competing with Epic Games and allowed Spotify to list its summer discount inside its app.
Q: What are the accusations against Apple in the United States?
A: The Department of Justice accuses Apple of creating a monopoly on smartphones.
Q: How does Apple respond to accusations of monopoly?
A: Apple now allows apps to use its contactless transaction technology, the NFC chip, to offer in-store payments, hotel keys and loyalty cards.
Q: How are developers reacting to Apple’s changes?
A: Developers say the changes show Apple is more interested in protecting its business than complying with the law.
Q: What are the next challenges that Apple could face?
A: Apple could face increased scrutiny of its business practices from governments and new laws aimed at further regulating its activities.