Today, the App Store is attacked from all sides because of its rules, its in-app payment system (on which Apple takes a commission) and because of the fact that unlike Android, iOS does not allow users to install apps that do not come from the official store.
This week, however, the firm announced that it had reached an agreement with a group of American developers who had taken it to court.“Apple today announced a number of upcoming changes to the App Store that, pending court approval, will resolve a class action lawsuit from U.S. developers. The terms of the agreement will help make the App Store an even better business opportunity for developers, while maintaining the secure and trusted marketplace that users love. Apple appreciates the feedback and ideas from developers who helped inform the agreement, and respects the ongoing judicial review process.", we can read in the ad.
Apple makes some concessions
Apple does not give up its closed system, nor its commission on in-app purchases. However, the firm will demonstrate more flexibility and more transparency. Additionally, Apple will also ensure that certain measures already in place to support developers will be maintained.
For example, Apple is committed to maintaining the program for three yearsApp Store Small Business Program. This allows “small” developers earning less than $1 million per year in revenue to benefit from a 15% reduction in the commission charged by Apple on in-app purchases (instead of 30%).
Apple has also committed that for at least the next three years, the App Store search algorithm will be based on objective criteria such as the number of downloads, reviews, relevance of texts, and signals linked to user behavior.
Regarding payments, Apple will clarify its regulations to explicitly state that developers have the right to communicate (for example, by email) with their users about the possibilities of making payments outside of the application iOS. As a reminder, when these payments are made outside the iOS application (for example, on a website), Apple does not charge its 15% or 30% commission. Additionally, developers should have more flexibility when it comes to pricing their apps.
When it comes to app approvals, Apple says it will provide more content to developers so they can better understand how the appeal process works in the event of a rejection. In addition, Apple will publish an annual transparency report on its app validation process for the App Store.
Finally, in the United States, the Cupertino company will create a fund which will assist “small developers”.
These few concessions allow Apple to settle a dispute with developers, without giving in with regard to its closed system (a closed system which, according to Apple, makes the platform secure).“The terms of the agreement will help make the App Store an even better business opportunity for developers, while maintaining the secure and trusted marketplace that users love”, rejoices the firm in its press release.
A new program for the media
At the same time, Apple is announcing a new program that will allow certain media outlets to benefit from a 15% reduction in the App Store commission on in-app purchases or subscriptions. While offering an offer that supports journalism, Apple will also boost its applicationApple News. Indeed, to be eligible, a media must offer content on this application.
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By : Keleops AG
