Apple is making significant changes to its App Store business terms in the European Union as the technology company seeks to resolve a prolonged regulatory dispute with the European Commission.
The revised rules are designed to simplify Apple's fee structure while providing developers with greater flexibility over how they distribute applications and process digital transactions. Apple said the changes were developed following discussions with the European Commission and are intended to address disagreements surrounding alternative app distribution and payment systems.
The new terms will take effect on October 1, 2026. Developers can begin accepting the updated terms before the changes officially come into force.
New 5 Percent Commission
One of the most important changes concerns applications distributed outside Apple's App Store.
Under the new system, Apple will introduce a 5 percent Core Technology Commission on digital transactions made through apps distributed through alternative marketplaces or eligible websites. The move replaces a more complicated fee structure that previously included Apple's Core Technology Fee.
The change is particularly significant because the European Union's Digital Markets Act requires major technology platforms designated as gatekeepers to allow greater competition in app distribution.
The European Commission's DMA rules require Apple to allow developers to distribute applications through alternative app marketplaces and, under specified conditions, directly through websites. The rules also allow developers to inform users about alternative purchasing options outside Apple's payment system.
App Store Fees Also Change
Apple is also changing the commission structure for applications that remain available through the App Store.
Under the revised terms, the standard commission for Apple's in-app purchase system will be 26 percent. Apps using alternative payment processing inside the App Store will face a 20 percent commission, with some developers potentially qualifying for lower rates under specific Apple programmes.
Apple is also eliminating some of the previous fees associated with acquiring customers and providing App Store services. The company says the new system will be simpler and easier for developers to understand.
The revised structure means developers will have more clearly defined options depending on how they distribute their applications and process payments.
Why the European Union Matters
The changes come after years of regulatory pressure on Apple's business practices in Europe.
The European Union's Digital Markets Act was introduced to increase competition in digital markets and reduce the ability of major technology companies to favour their own platforms.
Apple and Alphabet were designated as gatekeepers for their respective app stores in 2023. Under the DMA, companies classified as gatekeepers must comply with specific obligations concerning app distribution, payment systems and access to their platforms.
The European Commission has previously criticised Apple's approach to alternative app distribution and payment options. In April 2025, the Commission said Apple's contractual terms concerning alternative app distribution raised concerns under the DMA.
Apple's latest changes are therefore an important step in its continuing efforts to adjust its European business model.
More Choice for Developers
The new rules could give developers more options when deciding how to reach customers in the European Union.
Developers can continue distributing their applications through Apple's App Store, while eligible developers can also use alternative marketplaces or web distribution.
The European Commission says the DMA is intended to reduce developers' dependence on Apple's and Google's app stores. It also allows developers to communicate information about alternative purchasing options to consumers.
For consumers, this could eventually mean greater choice in how applications are downloaded and how digital products are purchased.
However, the actual effect on prices will depend on whether developers pass their reduced distribution costs on to customers. Lower commissions do not automatically mean lower prices for consumers.
Apple and Regulatory Pressure
Apple has faced increasing regulatory scrutiny over its App Store business model in several markets.
The European Union has been one of the most important jurisdictions challenging the company's traditional approach to app distribution and payments. The DMA gives regulators additional powers to impose obligations on large technology platforms and monitor whether they comply.
Apple has maintained that its App Store provides important security, privacy and quality controls. At the same time, the company has been required to adapt its European business practices to comply with the region's competition framework.
The latest changes show how regulation can influence the commercial structure of major technology platforms.
What Happens Next
The revised Apple terms are scheduled to become effective on October 1, 2026. The European Commission has indicated that it will continue monitoring Apple's compliance with the DMA and can take further enforcement action if necessary.
The changes could also provide an important test of whether alternative app marketplaces and web distribution can become meaningful competitors to the App Store in Europe.
For developers, the introduction of a 5 percent commission on digital transactions through apps distributed outside the App Store represents a major change from the previous structure.
For consumers, the long-term impact will depend on how developers respond to the new rules, including whether they offer lower prices or introduce different purchasing options.
Apple's decision marks another significant development in the European Union's effort to reshape the digital marketplace. While the company continues to operate the App Store as a major part of its ecosystem, developers in the EU now have more flexibility over alternative distribution channels.
The new rules are expected to come into effect on October 1, 2026, marking another major stage in Apple's ongoing adjustment to Europe's Digital Markets Act