In a strategic approach aimed at complying with Digital Markets Act (DMA) in the European Union (EU), Apple unveiled a series of transformative changes on iOS, Safari and the App Store. With more than 600 new APIs, expanded app analytics, and innovative app payment processing options, these changes aim to drive a secure and improved experience for EU users while opening new avenues for developers .
The changed landscape introduces new tools and terms for alternative app distribution and payment processing, as well as features for alternative browser engines and contactless payments. Developers now have the ability to choose between existing business terms and adoption of the new tools, demonstrating Apple's commitment to providing options to its diverse community of developers.
However, the expansion of payment processing and app downloads also raises concerns about potential risks such as malware, fraud and illegal content. To address these issues, Apple is implementing robust safeguards, including notarization for iOS apps, authorization for marketplace developers, and enhanced information about alternative payments. These measures aim to strike a balance between innovation and user safety within the constraints of the DMA.
Developers are encouraged to explore new tools for alternative application distribution, payment processing, navigation engines and contactless payments. It is important to note that developers have the choice to retain the existing commercial terms if they wish.
Other changes
Changes extend beyond the EU, with Apple introducing game streaming options globally and more than 50 upcoming reports covering areas like engagement, commerce and app usage .
Changes to iOS in the EU include new options for distributing iOS apps from alternative app marketplaces. Developers have access to new APIs and tools, allowing them to offer their iOS applications for download from alternative platforms. Frameworks and APIs for creating alternative app marketplaces allow developers to install apps and manage updates on behalf of others, fostering a collaborative ecosystem.
Apple is also sharing DMA-compliant changes impacting contactless payments, including new APIs allowing developers to use NFC technology in banking and wallet apps. EU users can now select a third-party contactless payment app or alternative app marketplace by default.
On the App Store, app developers in the EU will witness changes affecting various Apple operating systems.
New options for using Payment Service Providers (PSPs) in payment processing applications are being introduced, providing developers with flexibility and opening the door to the crucial role of PSPs. Additionally, new payment processing options via links allow users to transact on external developer websites, providing developers with the ability to notify EU users about promotions and offers .
In terms of commercial terms for European apps, Apple is sharing new options, necessitated by the DMA's requirements for alternative distribution and payment processing. The new terms include reduced commissions, payment processing fees and basic technology fees. Developers can choose to adopt these new terms or stick to Apple's existing terms.
Apple also offers developers a fee calculation tool and new reports to estimate the potential impact of new business conditions on their applications businesses.
Conclusion
Apple's strategic changes open up significant opportunities for payment service providers in the EU. The introduction of new payment processing options within apps, as well as the ability for developers to choose alternative payment processors, signifies a dynamic shift in the in-app payments landscape. As developers explore these opportunities, PSPs are poised to play a central role in shaping the future of in-app payments in the EU.
In a strategic approach aimed at complying with Digital Markets Act (DMA) in the European Union (EU), Apple unveiled a series of transformative changes on iOS, Safari and the App Store. With more than 600 new APIs, expanded app analytics, and innovative app payment processing options, these changes aim to drive a secure and improved experience for EU users while opening new avenues for developers .
The changed landscape introduces new tools and terms for alternative app distribution and payment processing, as well as features for alternative browser engines and contactless payments. Developers now have the ability to choose between existing business terms and adoption of the new tools, demonstrating Apple's commitment to providing options to its diverse community of developers.
However, the expansion of payment processing and app downloads also raises concerns about potential risks such as malware, fraud and illegal content. To address these issues, Apple is implementing robust safeguards, including notarization for iOS apps, authorization for marketplace developers, and enhanced information about alternative payments. These measures aim to strike a balance between innovation and user safety within the constraints of the DMA.
Developers are encouraged to explore new tools for alternative application distribution, payment processing, navigation engines and contactless payments. It is important to note that developers have the choice to retain the existing commercial terms if they wish.
Other changes
Changes extend beyond the EU, with Apple introducing game streaming options globally and more than 50 upcoming reports covering areas like engagement, commerce and app usage .
Changes to iOS in the EU include new options for distributing iOS apps from alternative app marketplaces. Developers have access to new APIs and tools, allowing them to offer their iOS applications for download from alternative platforms. Frameworks and APIs for creating alternative app marketplaces allow developers to install apps and manage updates on behalf of others, fostering a collaborative ecosystem.
Apple is also sharing DMA-compliant changes impacting contactless payments, including new APIs allowing developers to use NFC technology in banking and wallet apps. EU users can now select a third-party contactless payment app or alternative app marketplace by default.
On the App Store, app developers in the EU will witness changes affecting various Apple operating systems.
New options for using Payment Service Providers (PSPs) in payment processing applications are being introduced, providing developers with flexibility and opening the door to the crucial role of PSPs. Additionally, new payment processing options via links allow users to transact on external developer websites, providing developers with the ability to notify EU users about promotions and offers .
In terms of commercial terms for European apps, Apple is sharing new options, necessitated by the DMA's requirements for alternative distribution and payment processing. The new terms include reduced commissions, payment processing fees and basic technology fees. Developers can choose to adopt these new terms or stick to Apple's existing terms.
Apple also offers developers a fee calculation tool and new reports to estimate the potential impact of new business conditions on their applications businesses.
Conclusion
Apple's strategic changes open up significant opportunities for payment service providers in the EU. The introduction of new payment processing options within apps, as well as the ability for developers to choose alternative payment processors, signifies a dynamic shift in the in-app payments landscape. As developers explore these opportunities, PSPs are poised to play a central role in shaping the future of in-app payments in the EU.