Apple will give developers more freedom to set their prices on the App Store in an attempt to reconcile with the California giant accused by multiple companies and authorities of abusing its dominant position in the mobile app market.
Publishers will now be able to start their bids at $0.29 (up from $0.49 for subscriptions and $0.99 for in-app purchases) and in some cases go as high as $10,000 (up from $999.99). Apple assures in the press release that it has increased about 700 price levels. They will also have more options for setting their prices in different countries and currencies. “For example, a Japanese video game studio that does most of its business in Japan might have a fixed price for its Japanese store and let prices fluctuate overseas based on exchange rates.”Apple explained.
The iPhone maker thus brings flexibility to a system that has been widely criticized by many publishers, including Spotify and Epic Games (Fortnite), or more recently by the new owner of Twitter, Elon Musk. They basically accuse Apple of taking a commission (up to 30%) on all revenue generated through the App Store, the iPhone’s main app store for third-party app developers.
The authorities of different countries have been trying for several years to fight against the duopoly formed by Apple and Google (Android) in this market, where they are both judges and supporters. In the United States, legislation is being developed, and in Europe the Digital Markets Regulation (DMA) will enter into force in May 2023. It should force Apple to open up iOS, its mobile operating system, to payment and alternative methods. app stores.
In June 2021, Apple CEO Tim Cook assured that it was at risk “destroy iPhone security and many of the privacy initiatives we’ve built into the App Store”. The Apple brand has won battles, including a lawsuit against Epic Games. But he already had to make concessions. Last year, Apple ended the lawsuits by promising to pay $100 million to small American developers.
Above all, the company has since allowed publishers to offer their customers payment methods outside of the App Store, such as through their website.
Source: Le Figaro
I am Ben Stock, a passionate and experienced digital journalist working in the news industry. At the Buna Times, I write articles covering technology developments and related topics. I strive to provide reliable information that my readers can trust. My research skills are top-notch, as well as my ability to craft engaging stories on timely topics with clarity and accuracy.