Apple on Tuesday announced a new fee structure for app purchases in the European Union, introducing a 5% commission on apps distributed through third-party app stores or the web, which it says will "resolve" disagreements with EU regulators over the Digital Markets Act.
The new rules set several fee tiers depending on how developers process payments. Apps purchased through Apple's own App Store using its payment system will pay a 26% commission on digital goods and services. Apps that use their own payment processing and accept credit cards directly will pay 20%. Apps that link out to a website to complete purchases will be charged 15%, while apps distributed through third-party app stores or the web will pay 5%, which Apple calls a "Core Technology Commission." Apple said some of these fees can be cut in half for developers participating in certain Apple programs.
The structure replaces a more complicated system Apple proposed last year. The new tiers take effect on Oct. 1.
Historically, Apple charged either 30% or 15% on all iPhone in-app purchases and required non-enterprise iPhone apps to be installed through its App Store. That model has faced lawsuits and regulatory scrutiny worldwide over the past decade, with critics arguing it functions as a monopoly that squeezes developers and users with fees. Apple has said its App Store requirements are meant to ensure trust, safety and security.
