Apple will introduce a new fee structure for apps in the European Union from October 1, including a 5% commission on digital transactions involving apps distributed through alternative app marketplaces or the web. The changes are designed to simplify Apple's EU business terms and address regulatory disputes under the European Union's Digital Markets Act.
Apple is changing how it charges developers in the European Union, introducing a new commission structure that will lower some fees for alternative app distribution while maintaining significant charges for transactions conducted through its App Store.
Under the new terms, which take effect October 1, 2026, Apple will charge a 26% commission on digital goods and services purchased through its in app payment system. Developers using alternative payment processing within an App Store app will pay 20%, while those directing customers to an external website to complete a purchase will pay 15%. Apps distributed through alternative app marketplaces or directly through the web will face a 5% Core Technology Commission.
Apple said the changes follow close cooperation with the European Commission and are intended to simplify its business terms for developers operating in the EU. Apple's developer documentation confirms that the company is moving to a new set of EU business terms covering alternative payments, alternative app marketplaces and web distribution.
The changes come under the Digital Markets Act, the European Union's competition law for major technology platforms designated as "gatekeepers." The legislation requires companies such as Apple to provide developers with greater opportunities to distribute apps and offer payment options outside Apple's traditional App Store system.
The new structure replaces a more complicated system of fees that included Apple's previous Core Technology Fee and separate charges related to alternative payment and distribution arrangements. Reuters reported that the European Commission welcomed Apple's changes, although the company's approach continues to face criticism from some developers and industry participants.
Apple has faced sustained regulatory scrutiny in Europe over its App Store practices. The European Commission fined the company €500 million in 2025 over what regulators determined were breaches of the DMA's anti-steering provisions, which concern developers' ability to inform customers about alternative purchasing options.
For developers and digital businesses, the revised structure could alter the economics of selling subscriptions, digital content and other services to customers in the EU. The changes are particularly relevant to companies considering alternative app marketplaces or directing customers to external payment systems.
The implications extend beyond Europe as Apple continues to face regulatory scrutiny in other major markets. Japan and Brazil have also introduced requirements affecting Apple's app distribution and payment practices, while the company remains involved in separate litigation over App Store payment policies in the United States.
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