Apple Replaces EU Core Technology Fee, Eases Alternative App Store Rules
Apple replaces its EU per-install fee with a 5% commission, revises payment rates and eases access to alternative app marketplaces after DMA pressure.
Summary
Apple on August 18, 2026, replaced its per-install Core Technology Fee in the European Union with a 5% commission on digital goods sold through apps distributed via alternative marketplaces or the web. The revision follows years of European Commission disputes and a €500 million Digital Markets Act fine in 2025. Apple’s previous response, criticized as “malicious compliance,” combined an initial acquisition fee, store services charges and multiple service tiers.
Apple’s in-app purchase commission falls to 26% from its traditional 30%. Most developers can still pay 15% through the App Store Small Business Program, Mini Apps Partner Program or Video Partner Program, or for auto-renewing subscriptions after their first year. Apps using alternative payment processing will owe 20%, reduced to 10% for qualifying special-program participants. Developers must retain their chosen Apple, external or combined payment setup for 12 months.
External purchase links remain prohibited in Kids category apps, while users under 18 need parental approval for purchases outside the App Store. Apple also broadened eligibility to operate alternative app stores. Developers no longer must show substantial backing or two years in the Apple Developer Program plus an app exceeding 1 million first annual EU installs in the previous calendar year, although that route remains available. Marketplaces may instead satisfy financial stability requirements through public company status, financial audits, qualifying venture capital funding or other approved evidence.
Positives
- The 5% commission replaces Apple’s per-install Core Technology Fee for digital goods sold through apps distributed outside the App Store.
- Apple’s in-app purchase commission drops to 26% from the traditional 30% under the revised EU terms.
- Qualifying developers retain 15% in-app purchase and 10% alternative payment rates through Apple’s special programs.
- Alternative marketplace operators can now demonstrate stability through public company status, audits or qualifying venture capital funding.
- Apple removed the mandatory two-year Developer Program and 1 million first annual EU install thresholds for alternative marketplaces.
Risks & concerns
- Alternative payment processing still carries a 20% commission for developers outside Apple’s special programs.
- Developers are locked into Apple, external or combined payment choices for 12 months.
- External purchase links remain barred from Kids category apps, and users under 18 require parental approval for outside purchases.
- The overhaul follows a €500 million Digital Markets Act fine and continuing European Commission objections to Apple’s EU business terms.
- Apple’s earlier structure combined acquisition, store services and tiered fees, drawing criticism as “malicious compliance.”
