Arabella Asis Tech 03.05.2024 19:Mar PM EST

Apple Releases iOS 17.4, Updates App Store Policies for EU Users

Apple announced big updates to the iPhone and App Store for European Union (EU) users, including revisions to accommodate alternative app distribution based on the developers' feedback.

The tech giant revealed that the company has been in contact with thousands of developers to discuss Digital Markets Act (DMA)-related changes to iOS, Safari, and the App Store.

(Photo : Chris Delmas/Getty Images)

Apple Revises Alternative Terms for Apps in the EU

In the developer update post, Apple listed three revisions to the previously proposed alternative terms for the apps in the EU. The company removed the corporate entity requirement that the Addendum must be "signed by each membership that controls, is controlled by, or is under control with another membership."

In addition, Apple also created a one-time option to terminate the Addendum for certain reasons that will allow apps to return to Apple's standard business terms for EU apps.

Previously, Apple received negative feedback from app developers stating the proposed terms of the company remain unfair and could still violate the DMA. Moreover, several third-party companies voiced their concern about Apple's high fees.

Apple Introduces New Eligibility for Alternative Marketplace

One of the most disputed areas between Apple and the EU was its stronghold on its App Store. The iOS 17.4 SDK announced new criteria that will allow alternative marketplace developers to function within the EU.

"To uphold user experience standards, Apple will authorize marketplace developers through the Alternative App Marketplace Entitlement (EU) to distribute a dedicated marketplace iOS app after meeting specific criteria and committing to ongoing requirements that help protect users and developers," the company wrote.

Developers must also request the entitlement, which also has its own set of qualifications such as providing Apple a stand-by letter of credit of €1,000,000 or being a member of good standing in the Apple Developer Program for two consecutive years or more.

Apple also retained the Core Technology Fee that will require marketplace developers to pay €0.50 for each first annual install of their marketplace app.