Announcement of Apple's Protocol in Response to European Union's Digital Markets Act
Apple has announced its protocol in response to the Digital Markets Act (DMA) issued by the European Union, according to insiders from the company. As per Apple's new regulations, developers agreeing to the introduced new terms by Apple can create rival app markets to the Apple App Store. These stores will offer applications that are either not available on Apple's App Store or are not subject to Apple's rules.
Implications of Apple's Actions
Following this move by Apple, developers can utilize new features in App Store Connect and App Store Connect API to set up their applications. Apps collected for testing will be able to use alternative browsers, alternative payment service providers, and external linking.
While the European Commission aimed for Apple to open up iOS to alternative app stores, other companies have expressed reservations about Apple's actions. Spotify, Epic Games, and Xbox have criticized Apple's implementation of DMA.
Timeline and Further Assessment
The company's implementation of these new changes will begin in March 2024. The European Commission will review Apple's actions next month, and if any concerns are raised, the company may be asked for further modifications.