Apple released its plans for how to comply with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in March, and major companies quickly voiced their concerns that the implementation will hurt competitors more than help them.
Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney called the plan “hot garbage,” Spotify CEO Danel Ek called it “extortion,” and today Xbox president Sarah Bond joined the criticism, saying the new policy is a I’m going in the wrong direction.
We believe that constructive conversations drive change and progress towards open platforms and greater competition. Apple’s new policy is a step in the wrong direction. We hope they will listen to feedback on the proposed plan and work towards a more inclusive future for all. https://t.co/mDRI5KPJf6
— BondSarahBond (@BondSarah_Bond) January 29, 2024
Apple has agreed to allow third-party app stores on its mobile devices sold in the EU, but they will have to be approved through a human review process. Commissions are reduced to 17% for out-of-stock apps on the App Store, but developers will still have to pay €0.50 on the first install (after 1 million installs).
Daniel Ek said that Apple is forcing developers to stay with the status quo since what it offers is not a real alternative. Sarah Bond added that constructive conversations drive change and progress towards open platforms and greater competition.
The European Commission will intervene after the process of reviewing Apple’s measures begins on March 7. The US company will face “strong action” if it does not meet the requirements, meaning the battle for an open app market is far from over.
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