Apple opens up to alternative app stores in EU
Apple has announced that starting from March, it will allow users in the EU to utilize rival app stores on their devices. This move comes as a response to accusations of creating a monopoly and imposing high commissions on developers. By exclusively permitting iPhone users to download apps from its own App Store, Apple has faced criticism for impeding competition and limiting choices for customers and developers. This has resulted in the exclusion of developers who do not meet Apple’s standards or are unwilling to pay its fees.
Monopoly accusations and developer exclusion
By only allowing iPhone users to download apps exclusively from its own App Store, Apple has faced criticism for preventing competition and giving no choice to customers and developers. This has led to the exclusion of developers who fail to meet Apple’s standards or are unwilling to pay its fees.
Epic’s battle against Apple’s policies
The withdrawal of Epic’s popular game, Fortnite, from the App Store in 2020 highlighted the ongoing dispute between the two companies over Apple’s policies. Although Fortnite can still be played through the web, this new change could potentially allow European iPhone users to access the game through different app marketplaces.
EU’s Digital Markets Act takes effect
Apple’s decision to allow alternative app stores on its devices aligns with the implementation of the EU’s Digital Markets Act, which aims to regulate major companies that act as gatekeepers to services such as app stores. The goal is to create a fairer market for both established companies and smaller firms.
Increased browser choice for EU users
In addition to opening up to alternative app stores, Apple also announced that it would provide EU users with the option to opt out of using its Safari web browser from the moment they open it. This move further aligns with the Digital Markets Act’s requirements and promotes user choice.
Balancing security risks and compliance
While Apple believes that the changes it is implementing comply with the Digital Markets Act and protect EU users, it also acknowledges the potential increase in privacy and security threats. The tech giant has consistently positioned its premium-priced products as offering superior security, contrasting with the higher prevalence of malware on Android devices due to multiple app stores.
Analyst comment
Positive news: Apple opens up to alternative app stores in the EU, allowing more competition and choice for customers and developers. This move aligns with the EU’s Digital Markets Act and promotes a fairer market for established companies and smaller firms.
As an analyst, I believe that this decision by Apple will lead to increased competition in the app market in the EU, which could benefit both consumers and developers. It may also lead to the availability of more apps and games, including popular ones like Fortnite, through alternative app marketplaces. However, there could be potential privacy and security risks associated with this change, which Apple will need to address to maintain its reputation for superior security.
