Hannah Hopkins 
May 06, 2024
In a significant move, Apple has confirmed that it will introduce changes to the iPad ecosystem in the European Union (EU) this fall, following the introduction of the Digital Markets Act (DMA). The law aims to prevent monopoly abuse by designating platforms as gatekeepers. As a result, Apple will make fundamental changes to the way the iPad works in the EU.
The Digital Markets Act is a new law introduced in the EU that aims to promote competition and innovation in the tech industry. By designing platforms as gatekeepers, the law requires companies like Apple to open up their ecosystems to alternative app marketplaces and browsers.
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Apple will introduce changes to the iPad ecosystem in the EU, allowing users to download apps from alternative marketplaces and choose different browsers instead of just the Apple Store.
Developers will also have the option to adopt alternative business terms, including additional capabilities and options. Additionally, Apple has introduced a Core Technology Fee (CTF) for developers, which will be charged per year after the first million installs.
While many developers will continue to use the App Store, the changes provide new opportunities for innovation and growth. Small developers with less than USD 10 million in global annual revenue will get a 3-year free on-ramp.
This means that developers can build popular apps without paying CTF, and will only pay a small percentage of their revenue when they exceed the limit.
The change will come into effect this fall, and it remains to be seen whether they want to implement similar rules. Apple has already made significant changes to the iPhone ecosystem in the EU, and it's clear the company is committed to complying with the new law.
