Apple is making adjustments to how it implements a new fee for iOS developers in the European Union as it navigates the bloc’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). In a move announced on Thursday, developers of free apps will now have the option to avoid the fee entirely, starting today. Additionally, developers earning below a certain revenue threshold will have more time before they are required to pay the fee.
The fee, known as the “core technology fee,” is still voluntary for iOS developers in the region. However, developers who wish to access new entitlements mandated by the DMA, such as allowing sideloading of apps and support for alternative payment technologies, must agree to Apple’s business terms, including the CTF.
While the fee remains under scrutiny by the European Commission, Apple has responded to feedback from thousands of developers concerned about potential penalties for offering free or small apps that unexpectedly become popular. The company has introduced changes to provide exemptions for non-commercial developers, students, and hobbyists, as well as a 3-year “free on-ramp” for small developers earning less than €10 million in global annual revenue.
In a related development, the EU recently announced that Apple’s iPadOS platform will also fall under the DMA, giving Apple six months to ensure compliance with the same rules as iOS. Apple confirmed that the changes made for iOS will also apply to iPadOS later this fall, offering developers the choice to adopt alternative business terms or remain on Apple’s existing terms.
Overall, these adjustments aim to address concerns raised by developers while aligning with the regulatory requirements set forth by the EU’s Digital Markets Act.