Apple overhauls EU App Store fees, eases alternative store rules
Original: Apple overhauls its EU App Store fees, loosens rules for alternative app stores
Why This Matters
Apple's revised EU fee model signals a significant shift in App Store economics under DMA enforcement pressure.
Apple announced on August 18, 2026 a simplified EU commission structure replacing its per-install Core Technology Fee with a flat 5% commission on digital goods distributed outside the App Store, while also reducing in-app purchase fees to 26% and loosening requirements for alternative app marketplace operators.
Apple unveiled a revised App Store fee structure for the European Union on Tuesday, aimed at resolving ongoing disputes with the European Commission over DMA compliance. The centerpiece change replaces the controversial per-install Core Technology Fee with a flat 5% commission on transactions in apps distributed via alternative app marketplaces or the web. Apple's own in-app purchase fee drops from 30% to 26%, though most developers will still qualify for a reduced 15% rate through programs such as the Small Business Program, Mini Apps Partner Program, Video Partner Program, or auto-renewing subscriptions after the first year. Apps using alternative payment processors will face a 20% commission, reduced to 10% for qualifying program members. Developers must lock in their chosen payment method for 12 months. Apple also loosened eligibility requirements for operating alternative app stores, removing prior thresholds that required significant financial backing or 1 million EU installs in the previous year. External links inside apps are barred in the Kids category, and users under 18 require parental approval for out-of-App-Store purchases. The revision follows Apple's €500 million DMA fine and criticism that its previous fee structure constituted 'malicious compliance.'