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A lot is changing in the EU when it comes to Apple's App Store. Apple is taking new measures, especially regarding payment processing. Users now see warnings when downloading certain apps, which are intended to make it clear that these apps do not use Apple's usual payment system. This comes as a surprise to many.
Apple has begun displaying warning symbols on apps in the European App Store that use alternative payment methods. This primarily affects providers that allow external purchases—that is, payments outside of Apple's system. The warning appears in the form of a red triangle with an exclamation mark. It is accompanied by a disclaimer: The app does not support the App Store's private and secure payment system and uses external purchases.
This display is striking because Apple is using the so-called "critical" icon – an icon normally used in macOS to indicate serious system problems, such as impending data loss. The move follows legal and regulatory developments that are putting pressure on Apple to open its closed system.
Apps with warnings: Who is affected?
One example is the app Instacar. It originates from Hungary, is used to rate cars, and has thousands of positive reviews in the App Store. Nevertheless, it is one of the first applications to receive the new warning symbol. Instacar uses an external payment method and is therefore no longer subject to the Apple-controlled system. This measure potentially affects all apps in the EU that offer other payment methods – regardless of their size or popularity. Developers who circumvent Apple's in-app purchasing system can expect to receive this warning.
Why Apple is reacting now
The new warning is not isolated. In recent months, Apple has been forced to open up its system at various levels. In March 2025, the European Commission imposed a fine of €500 million on Apple. The accusation: Apple had prevented app developers from informing users about alternative payment options. The Commission demanded that Apple lift so-called steering restrictions – technical and commercial rules that prevent developers from pointing out other payment methods. In addition, a court order was issued in the USA at the end of April. Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers prohibited Apple from enforcing rules that prohibit developers from promoting or using external payment methods. Apple had attempted to maintain this rule, which was deemed a contempt of court.
What does this mean for users?
If you see an app in the EU with the red warning symbol, it doesn't automatically mean that the app is unsafe. It just means that it doesn't use Apple's own payment system. In practice, this can mean that you are redirected to a website when paying or that you use a different system that hasn't been directly reviewed by Apple. In the warning text, Apple points out that external purchases may be less data protection or security-related. At the same time, Apple assumes no responsibility in these cases should problems arise during payment processing. For you as a user, this is a reminder to take a closer look: Who is behind the app? How trustworthy does the external payment site seem? Are there any reviews? But it doesn't automatically mean there's a risk – some developers also use external payment methods to offer you cheaper prices because they don't have to pay Apple a commission.
Warnings as a signal in the power struggle for the App Store
Apple is responding to political and legal pressure in the EU with visible warnings for users. The new icons are intended to draw attention to apps that use external payment methods. What appears to be a security warning is also a signal in the debate over control and market regulation. As a user, you should take the warnings seriously, but don't automatically assume an app is unsafe. It's worth taking a closer look—especially for popular or well-rated apps that are now marked with warning icons. (Image: Apple)
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