Apple has announced that it will allow developers to request consultations to discuss upcoming changes to the iOS App Store in compliance with the European Union’s new Digital Markets Act (DMA).
The DMA, for a quick primer, is a sweeping set of antitrust regulations aimed at reining in the market power of Big Tech giants like Apple.
The consultations offered by Apple – which can be either online video meetings or in-person sessions at an Apple lab in Cork, Ireland – are intended to help developers understand the new guidelines that will enable alternative app stores and payment systems on iPhones and iPads sold in the EU.
“Meet with an Apple team member to discuss changes to iOS, Safari, and the App Store impacting apps in the European Union to comply with the Digital Markets Act,” Apple said in its announcement.
“Topics include alternative distribution on iOS, alternative payments in the App Store, linking out to purchase on your webpage, new business terms, and more.”
The 30-minute consultations will give developers a chance to ask Apple representatives any questions they may have about the impending changes, which are expected to have a significant impact on the iOS app ecosystem in the region.
Apple said it will review each request for an in-person consultation “to ensure developers can get the most out of the labs” given limited space. Developers interested in learning more about operating an alternative app store in EU countries can find additional details on Apple’s website.
The move to open up iOS in Europe comes after years of antitrust scrutiny and pressure on Apple to relax restrictions requiring developers to use its proprietary in-app purchase system. Allowing alternate app stores could significantly disrupt Apple’s business model, which relies heavily on commissions from App Store purchases.
Consultation requests can be made via Apple’s website here.
(Photo by Aron Visuals on Unsplash)
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