Apple is making changes to its fee structure for the App Store Link Out feature in the EU.
The latest changes will impact developers who wish to add links on the web so users are informed about other payment systems. Moreover, the iPhone maker explained how the latest decision comes instead of the EU’s ruling last month.
Apple was accused of anti-steering policies so more people would use its in-app payments systems. This was a complete violation of the Digital Markets Act. Now, in response to that, Apple is making changes to the fee structure so developers feel the financial constraints of promoting other payment systems.
The new rules are also getting rid of old rules that restrict developers from linking out other options. Obviously, that comes at this higher fee cost.
In the past, Apple enforced some strict rules that prevented developers from giving users the exact link where a payment could be made. Today, that’s not the case. No such restriction is present and apps can give way to more links to any destination on the web, including sale channels.
Another major change is Apple enabling opening links inside the original app. Previously, users had to go to the app by searching for it on Safari but that’s not the case anymore.
Meanwhile, the Cupertino firm is also speaking about updates to its design that are more user-friendly. This includes automated updates to disclosure sheets which will arrive soon in another future iOS update.
The latest fee structure means saying hello to a two-tiered system for fees. The first one is called Initial Acquisition while the second one is called Store Services fee. Moreover, the former is related to commissions from digital product sales and purchases by new members. The latter has to do with a fee that must be paid if the user returns to use the app again for purchases.
The latest fee is only for those new purchases and not for any old subscriptions or renewals. But what are the latest rates?
If you’re operating under the EU, the initial acquisition is 5% and Store Services is 10%. The latter would be reduced to half if you’re a part of the App Store Small Business program or qualify for renewals after one year.
As you can tell, the fee is a complex mix of fee and eligibility-related expenses. Developers need to evaluate it carefully. Meanwhile, the new terms can also be reviewed on the company’s developer page if you have any more questions. There’s also a new fee calculator to make things easier on the app.
Apple tried to promote the changes as a revised fee structure that is much lower for developers in terms of the existing and alternative linking-out options. Clearly, the company knows how to market things well.
Image: DIW-Aigen
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