SourceApple announces changes for apps in the European Union
These changes alter how developers earn revenue and introduce more payment options for users in the EU. It also makes it easier for various companies to operate alternative app marketplaces.
- Replaced the Core Technology Fee with a 5 percent Core Technology Commission on digital transactions in apps distributed outside the App Store.
- Eliminated the initial acquisition fee and store services fee for EU developers.
- Established standard commission rates of 26 percent for Apple In-App Purchase, 20 percent for alternative payment processing, and 15 percent for linking out, with reduced rates for qualifying developers.
- Permitted developers to offer Apple In-App Purchase alongside alternative payment options in the EU.
- Introduced child safety protections including parental gates for users under 18 and transaction restrictions for users under 13.
- Expanded eligibility criteria for operating alternative app marketplaces and distributing via the web.
- Terms are available immediately and take effect on October 1, 2026.