Apple is reportedly preparing to make a significant policy change in Europe, aiming to allow third-party app stores on its devices by March 2024. This shift is in response to the European Union’s Digital Markets Act, which requires such adjustments to promote competition in the app distribution space.
EU’s Digital Markets Act Pushes Apple to Enable Alternative App Stores by 2024
According to Apple’s recent 10-K filing, the company expects to comply with the new EU legislation, which will directly impact the way its App Store operates. This includes changes in how Apple charges developers, manages the distribution of applications outside its App Store, and allows developers to communicate with users for alternative purchase options.
This move towards permitting third-party app stores could potentially reduce Apple’s App Store revenue, which could have a significant impact on the company’s overall business and financial performance.
Apple, historically known for its strict stance against third-party app stores and sideloading, has not made any public comments regarding these developments following the filing.
Analysts at Morgan Stanley have interpreted the updated language in the filing as a sign that third-party app store access in the EU is on the horizon. They believe that Apple can successfully navigate these changes, citing the security, centralization, and convenience of the existing App Store as factors that might discourage users from switching to third-party alternatives.
In addition to its European challenges, Apple has also faced complications related to its app guidelines in China. The company has adjusted its guidelines to comply with new regulations, which limit access to banned foreign apps. These changes align with China’s increasing internet restrictions, potentially affecting Chinese iPhone users’ access to global platforms. However, Apple’s strong brand and diverse product range, including the popular iPhone 15, are expected to help maintain its hardware sales in China.
Now if you have come this far, I highly recommend you to read our recent article on how governments are actively regulating big tech companies to align with their objectives.
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