Apple has introduced a web distribution feature that allows direct downloads from developer websites in the EU.
Apple will enable authorized developers to provide app downloads directly from their websites, eliminating the requirement for a third-party app store in the EU.
Apple
On Tuesday, Apple announced the addition of support for Web Distribution, which will be rolled out in the coming weeks. This feature will allow developers to distribute apps directly from their websites, eliminating the need to install third-party app stores. These apps will also support system integration and backup and restore functionality. Additionally, Apple revealed changes to its policies regarding support for alternative app stores in the EU, making it simpler for developers to exclusively offer their own apps through a dedicated app marketplace.
As per information provided by Apple on its developer website, an upcoming software update will introduce support for Web Distribution in the EU. Authorized developers will soon have the capability to directly distribute apps to users from their websites. These developers will also be granted access to iOS application programming interfaces (APIs) to enable backup and restore functionalities, system integration, and app distribution via the web without relying on a third-party app store.
According to Apple’s support page for Web Distribution, developers aiming to distribute their apps directly from their websites must be enrolled as an organization (or have a subsidiary legal entity) that is incorporated, domiciled, and/or registered in the EU. Additionally, they must have been part of the Apple Developer Program for a minimum of two consecutive years, and one of their apps must have accumulated over one million annual app downloads in the EU.
Apple has implemented certain restrictions, including the requirement for apps to be notarized and developers agreeing to distribute apps exclusively from their developer account. Developers must also commit to responding to Apple’s communications, publishing data collection policies, and providing privacy controls. Additionally, they are required to adhere to the EU’s Digital Services Act and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), as well as comply with government requests to remove apps.
Developers choosing web distribution will be required to pay Apple a Core Technology Fee (CTF) of EUR 0.50 (approximately Rs. 45) for each annual app installation exceeding one million, as stated by the company. Accredited educational institutions, government entities, and non-profit organizations will be waived from the annual Apple Developer Program membership fee and the CTF.
Apple has additionally revealed that developers aiming to introduce alternative app marketplaces in the EU will now have the option to restrict these stores solely to their own apps. This marks a shift from Apple’s previous policy, which mandated that other developers should also have the opportunity to present their apps on third-party app stores. Consequently, developers are now empowered to establish dedicated app stores featuring their own applications exclusively in the EU.
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