Apple to Allow EU Users to Download Apps from Developers' Websites

Apple has revealed its plan to enable app downloads outside of the App Store from authorized developer websites in the EU "later this spring." The company plans to provide developers access to various APIs for iOS integration, backup, restore, and other functions. Downloading will be restricted to the specific site that developers designate in their App Store Connect account.

To provide services through their website, developers are required to have a European legal entity specified in the Apple Developer Program. They must also be registered members of the Apple Developer Program for at least two consecutive years, with the application having garnered over 1 million installations in the EU in the preceding calendar year.

Developers will be subject to a "core technology fee" (CTF) of 0.5 euros per installation beyond the initial million for the year, as mandated by the Digital Markets Act. However, non-profit organizations, accredited educational institutions, and government agencies are exempt from this fee.

Back in January 2024, Apple had previously announced plans to permit EU users to download iOS apps from alternative stores approved by the company. This decision aligns with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) which took effect in the European Union in March 2024.

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