Apple Awaits EU Verdict on App Store Fee Changes Amid DMA Scrutiny

Apple is under intense scrutiny from the European Commission (EC) as it awaits a pivotal ruling that could determine the future of its App Store operations across the European Union. The core issue: whether Apple’s revised fee structure aligns with the requirements of the Digital Markets Act (DMA), a landmark regulation designed to ensure fair competition in the digital economy.

In an effort to comply with the DMA and avoid hefty penalties, Apple has made significant changes to its App Store policies. The tech giant recently reduced its standard in-app transaction fees to 20%, while small businesses now pay as little as 13%. Furthermore, in a major shift from its long-standing ecosystem rules, Apple is now allowing developers to redirect users to external payment platforms, bypassing Apple’s in-app purchase system entirely.

This flexibility comes with a tiered commission structure. Developers leveraging third-party payment options will incur fees ranging between 5% and 15%, depending on the size and type of their business. Notably, Apple has also lifted restrictions on the use of external links, empowering app developers to promote and integrate alternative payment methods more freely.

These policy shifts come amid mounting pressure from EU regulators, who are closely monitoring how major tech companies adapt to the DMA. Apple, designated as a “gatekeeper” under the Act, faces the possibility of multi-billion-euro fines if found non-compliant.

The European Commission’s ruling on Apple's revised App Store model is expected in the coming weeks, and its outcome could have sweeping implications not just for Apple, but for the broader app economy across Europe.

As Apple navigates these regulatory challenges, developers and consumers alike are watching closely, as the final decision could reshape digital commerce rules and redefine how apps monetize in the EU market.