Apple Overhauls EU App Store Fees With New 5% Commission

Apple is overhauling its App Store business terms in the European Union, replacing its per-install Core Technology Fee with a 5% commission on digital transactions for apps distributed outside the App Store.

The revised structure also changes commissions for Apple’s in-app purchases and alternative payment systems while easing requirements for developers that want to operate alternative app marketplaces. The changes are Apple’s latest effort to bring its EU business terms into compliance with the Digital Markets Act.

Apple replaces Core Technology Fee with 5% commission

Under the new terms, Apple will charge a flat 5% commission on transactions involving digital goods in apps distributed through alternative marketplaces or the web. The structure replaces the Core Technology Fee, which charged developers based on app installations.

For apps usingApple’ss in-app purchase system, the commission will be 26%, compared with 30% under Apple’s traditional terms. Many developers can qualify for a 15% rate through programs including the App Store Small Business Program, Mini Apps Partner Program and Video Partner Program, as well as for qualifying auto-renewing subscriptions after their first year.

Developers using alternative payment processing will pay a 20% commission. Those participating in eligible special programs can receive a 10% discount.

Apple said developers will remain committed to their selected payment arrangement for 12 months, whether they choose Apple’s in-app purchases, external payment processing or a combination of both.

Alternative app marketplace requirements are loosened

Apple is also expanding the ways developers can qualify to operate alternative app marketplaces in the EU. Previously, developers generally needed to demonstrate substantial financial backing or meet requirements tied to participation inApple’ss Developer Program and annual EU installations.

The revised rules no longer require developers to meet those milestones as their only path to eligibility. Apple will accept additional evidence of financial stability, including public company status, financial audits and qualifying venture capital funding.

Apple is also maintaining restrictions around external purchase links for apps in the Kids category. Users under 18 will need parental approval before making purchases outside the App Store.

Changes follow EU regulatory pressure

The revised terms follow years of disputes between Apple and European regulators over its App Store policies. The European Commission previously fined Apple €500 million for failing to comply with the Digital Markets Act and threatened additional penalties.

Apple changed its EU fee structure last year in response, introducing acquisition fees, store services charges and different service tiers. Critics argued that the resulting system remained unnecessarily complex.

The latest overhaul substantially restructures those terms, particularly for developers distributing apps outside Apple’s marketplace, while preserving commissions on digital transactions and alternative payment processing.