EU Developers Challenge Apple Fees

A coalition of app developers and consumer groups has urged the European Union to act against Apple’s fee practices.
They argue that revised terms still violate the Digital Markets Act and disadvantage European firms compared to U.S. rivals.
Dissatisfaction persists as Apple prepares further policy changes without clear details.

Dispute Over Fee Structures

Twenty app developers and consumer organizations have called on EU regulators to enforce the Digital Markets Act (DMA) against Apple. The law, introduced in 2023, requires gatekeeper platforms to allow in-app transactions outside their ecosystem at no charge. Earlier this year, the European Commission fined Apple €500 million for obstructing developers from directing users to alternative payment methods. Apple responded by revising its terms, introducing fees of 13% to 20% for App Store purchases and penalties of 5% to 15% on external transactions.

The Coalition for App Fairness (CAF), which includes companies such as Deezer and Proton, contends that these changes still breach DMA requirements. CAF argues that U.S. developers benefit from more favorable conditions following a recent court ruling limiting Apple’s ability to impose fees. In a statement, the group described the situation as harmful to transparency and innovation. The coalition insists that European developers remain disadvantaged six months after the Commission’s ruling.

Developer Concerns and Consumer Impact

CAF’s Global Policy Counsel, Gene Burrus, emphasized that European developers must either absorb the costs or pass them on to consumers. He warned that the fee structure undermines competitiveness and damages the app economy. Developers are frustrated by Apple’s lack of clarity on further policy changes scheduled for January. The uncertainty has fueled calls for stronger enforcement from EU authorities.

Apple’s revised terms have sparked debate over whether they comply with the DMA’s requirement of free external transactions. Critics argue that the company’s approach continues to restrict fair competition. Burrus urged the Commission to remind Apple that “free of charge means free of charge.” He also suggested that the issue could be referred to the European Court of Justice if necessary.

Regulatory and Legal Outlook

The dispute highlights broader tensions between global tech firms and European regulators. Apple’s practices have already drawn significant penalties, but enforcement remains complex. The DMA was designed to prevent gatekeepers from exploiting their market position, yet implementation has revealed gaps in compliance. Developers are pressing for stronger measures to ensure equal treatment across regions.

Legal experts note that differences between U.S. and EU rulings create uneven conditions for developers. While American firms benefit from reduced fees, European companies face higher costs. This disparity has intensified calls for decisive EU action. The outcome of the dispute may set important precedents for how digital markets are regulated in the future.