Apple is updating its App Store linking rules in the European Union to comply with the requirements of the Digital Markets Act, Apple said today.
Apps distributed through EU storefronts can now communicate information about non-App Store purchase options and deals for digital goods available through websites, alternative app marketplaces, or other apps. Developers can let customers access alternate purchase options outside the app, within an app through a web view, or through a native app experience.
Apple says that developers who opt to promote offers for digital goods and services will need to agree to new business terms and pay an initial acquisition fee and a store services fee. Apps that use the StoreKit External Purchase Link Entitlement will also need to pay a Core Technology Commission. In Apple’s own words:
App Store apps that communicate and promote offers for digital goods or services will be subject to new business terms for those transactions — an initial acquisition fee, store services fee, and for apps on the StoreKit External Purchase Link Entitlement (EU) Addendum, the Core Technology Commission (CTC). The CTC reflects the value Apple provides developers through ongoing investments in the tools, technologies, and services that enable them to build and share innovative apps with users.
Apple says that by January 1, 2026, it will move to a single business model in the EU for all developers. Apple will transition from the Core Technology Fee (CTF) to the Core Technology Commission (CTC) for digital goods and services.
Starting with iOS 18.6 and iPadOS 18.6, iPhone and iPad users will see a new interface for installing alternative app marketplaces or apps from a developer’s website. Later in 2025, Apple plans to provide an API that will let developers initiate the download of alternatively distributed apps they publish from within their app.
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