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Apple has been struggling with the consequences of the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in Europe for months. The company is under pressure to adjust its App Store rules. Following a €500 million fine in April and the threat of further daily fines, Apple recently introduced far-reaching changes. Now it appears that these measures could be enough to convince the EU Commission.
There's movement in the dispute over Apple's compliance with the DMA. As Reuters reports, citing people familiar with the matter, the recently introduced App Store rules in the European Union could receive approval from EU authorities. A decision from the Commission is expected in the coming weeks – although the exact timing is subject to change. If the new measures are deemed sufficient, Apple will avoid further fines.
EU appears satisfied with Apple's new rules
Apple's recent changes address key points of criticism from the EU. The focus so far has been on developers' limited access to alternative payment options and the way Apple charges fees. This is precisely where the company has targeted the issue:
- Apple now allows developers to directly inform users about external payment methods. This option was previously severely restricted and deemed anti-competitive by the EU.
- In addition, Apple has fundamentally revised its App Store fee model. The existing fees have been split into three new components: an initial acquisition fee, a store service fee, and a core technology fee. Apple says this new structure is intended to provide greater transparency.
According to the Reuters report, people with direct knowledge of the ongoing investigation see these measures as a potential turning point. The changes are considered sufficient to formally comply with the DMA's requirements. If the Commission agrees, Apple would not be subject to any further penalties.
The penalty remains for now – Apple appeals
Despite the expected approval of the new regulations, the original fine of €500 million remains in place. Apple has filed an appeal. The company argues that the EU's decision oversteps the mark and imposes requirements that go beyond what is legally necessary. Even if the recent adjustments could be considered DMA-compliant, the conflict has not been fully resolved. In the appeal process, Apple intends to continue fighting what it considers an excessive interpretation of the DMA.
Apple meets requirements – but the dispute continues
Apple is moving toward a compromise with the EU without giving up the legal battle. The App Store rules have been amended, and the regulator's key demands have at least formally been met. If the Commission gives the green light in the coming weeks, Apple could avoid further fines. Whether this will bring long-term peace is questionable, however—the legal dispute over the fundamental issues of the DMA continues. (Image: Shutterstock / BigTunaOnline)
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