Spotify, Epic Games, and Other Developers Complain to European Commission About Apple’s Proposed Scheme for Compliance with Digital Markets Act
Several prominent developers and EU associations have joined forces to express their concerns about Apple’s proposed scheme for compliance with the Digital Markets Act (DMA). In a joint letter sent to the European Commission, 34 companies and associations, including Spotify, Epic Games, Deezer, and Paddle, argue that Apple’s plans do not meet the requirements of the law.
According to the letter, Apple’s proposed changes disregard both the spirit and letter of the DMA and will make a mockery of the legislation if left unchanged. The companies highlight specific components of Apple’s plan that they find problematic, including the Core Technology Fee, the Notarization process, and the terms that developers must accept.
One of the major issues raised in the letter is Apple’s requirement for developers to either stay with the current App Store terms or opt in to new terms. The developers argue that this choice is unworkable and adds unnecessary complexity and confusion. They believe that neither option is compliant with the DMA and that it will only serve to consolidate Apple’s stronghold over digital markets.
The Core Technology Fee and transaction fees imposed by Apple are also seen as barriers to competition. Developers argue that these fees prevent them from agreeing to what they consider to be unjust terms. Additionally, Apple’s use of privacy and security concerns as a justification for limiting user choice is criticized in the letter. The “scare screens” that Apple plans to show users are seen as misleading and degrading to the user experience.
Another point of contention is Apple’s refusal to allow sideloading and its restrictions on the installation and use of new app stores. Developers argue that these limitations make it difficult, risky, and financially unattractive for them to explore alternative app marketplaces.
In light of these concerns, the companies and associations are urging the European Union to take swift and decisive action against Apple. They believe that the European Commission’s response to Apple’s proposal will serve as a litmus test for the DMA and its ability to protect Europe’s citizens and economy.
Apple is required to comply with the Digital Markets Act by March 7, and the app ecosystem changes are expected to be implemented in iOS 17.4. The release of iOS 17.4 is anticipated early next week, and it will introduce alternative app marketplaces, alternative payment methods, and new terms for developers.
To support its changes, Apple has published a whitepaper outlining the risks it aims to mitigate with the Notarization process and other requirements for alternative app marketplaces. However, it remains to be seen whether these measures will address the concerns raised by developers and EU associations.
In conclusion, the joint letter from Spotify, Epic Games, and other developers highlights their dissatisfaction with Apple’s proposed scheme for compliance with the Digital Markets Act. They argue that Apple’s plans do not meet the requirements of the law and will only strengthen its dominance over digital markets. The European Commission’s response to Apple’s proposal will be crucial in determining whether the DMA can effectively protect Europe’s citizens and economy.
