Apple Surrenders... Allows App Downloads via Web Browsers in Europe

Apple announced on the 12th (local time) that it will allow applications (apps) to be downloaded directly from developers' web browsers without going through the App Store in Europe.

Accordingly, developers will be able to offer apps through their own websites, and European iPhone users will be able to download apps without using the App Store. However, Apple explained that this will only apply to developers who meet certain criteria and continuous requirements that help protect users.

On the 13th, the official domestic release date of the iPhone 15 series, customers are experiencing the products at the Apple Store Myeongdong in Jung-gu, Seoul. Photo by Jinhyung Kang aymsdream@

Apple also decided to allow developers to offer their apps through third-party or external app markets. Developers will not have to pay the commission fees previously charged through the Apple App Store payment system, enabling them to offer apps at lower prices.

Apple stated that it will implement this policy through a software update starting in late spring this year.

This opening of the App Store follows the Digital Markets Act (DMA) enforced by the European Union (EU) on the 7th to regulate the abuse of market dominance by big tech companies. The EU designated six big tech companies, including Apple, as "gatekeepers" and mandated interoperability between their own platforms and third-party services. Violations may result in fines of up to 10% of the global annual turnover, and repeated violations may incur fines up to 20%.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.