Apple is making a big change to its EU App Store rules. From October 1, developers will face a new 5% fee on digital sales made through apps outside the App Store. The move may change how apps are sold on iPhones.
Apple brings in a 5% fee for outside app sales
As reported by TechCrunch, Apple is changing its fee model in Europe after a long fight with EU regulators. The company will replace its old Core Technology Fee with a 5% Core Technology Commission for digital sales made through alternative app stores or the web. The change is part of a wider update to Appleโs business terms. The new fee will start on October 1, 2026.
The new 5% charge does not apply to every app sale. It mainly covers apps that are distributed outside Appleโs own store. That means developers using other marketplaces or eligible web distribution will now have a clear transaction fee instead of the older, more complex system. This could make costs easier to plan and render outside distribution more attractive.
App Store fees are changing too
Apple is not just changing its rules for outside stores. The company is also reportedly cutting its standard App Store commission for Apple In-App Purchase from 30% to 26%. Most developers can still pay 15% under Appleโs special programs. These include the Small Business Program, Mini Apps Partner Program and Video Partner Program. Auto-renewing subscriptions will also get the 15% rate after the first year.
Apps that use alternative payment systems inside the App Store will pay a 20% fee. That can fall to 10% for developers in the qualifying programs. Apps that send users to a website to buy something will face a 15% fee, or 10% for eligible developers. Apple is also allowing developers to offer Apple In-App Purchase and another payment option together. This was not allowed before under the EU rules.
EU pressure opens the door to more choice
As reported by Appleโs official website, the changes come after close talks with the European Commission. The company says the new system will give every EU developer one set of business terms. The update is aimed at resolving the long dispute over Appleโs app rules and alternative distribution.
Apple is also making it easier for companies to run alternative app stores. New businesses can qualify through public company status, approved venture funding, financial audits or other financial checks. There are still safety rules. Apps sold outside the App Store must pass Appleโs Notarization process. Apple will also block web purchase links in Kids apps. Users under 18 will need a parent or guardian step for some outside payments.
The move is a major shift, but it does not mean Apple is giving up its App Store business. Instead, the company is changing how it collects money while giving developers more ways to reach users. For Apple, the new rules may reduce its control in Europe. For developers, they could bring more choice and simpler costs. The real effect will become clearer after the October launch.
Authorโs Opinion
This is a meaningful change for developers, even if the system still has many rules. A flat 5% fee may feel easier to understand. The bigger point is that EU users and app makers now have more ways to buy, sell and distribute apps.
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