Unlocking the EU App Market: Requirements for Developers Under iOS 17.5
In a landmark move, Apple has introduced a major change to its iOS platform, empowering developers to offer downloadable apps directly from their websites. This historic development, driven by the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), grants EU citizens unprecedented freedom to source apps beyond the confines of the App Store. However, to ensure a secure and reliable app ecosystem, Apple has established clear requirements that developers must meet to offer apps on their websites.
Notarization: A Seal of Approval
Developers seeking to distribute apps through their websites must navigate Apple’s Notarization process. This process involves submitting apps for verification by Apple to ensure they comply with the company’s security standards. By obtaining a “Notarization Checksum” from Apple, developers demonstrate that their apps meet the necessary criteria for distribution.
Membership and Duration: A Commitment to the Platform
To qualify for website distribution, developers must have maintained an active membership in Apple’s Developer Program for a minimum of two consecutive years. This requirement signals Apple’s commitment to fostering a stable and experienced developer community. By requiring developers to invest in the platform over time, Apple aims to uphold high standards of quality and support.
EU Presence: A Focus on Local Impact
In line with the DMA’s goal of promoting local innovation, developers must either be based within the EU or possess a subsidiary within its borders. This stipulation ensures that apps offered through websites align with the needs and interests of EU citizens. By fostering a diverse and vibrant developer ecosystem, Apple hopes to stimulate innovation and tailor app offerings to the specific demands of the region.
Popularity and Eligibility: A Measure of Success
Only apps that have garnered significant traction within the EU are eligible for website distribution. Apple’s threshold for eligibility is set at apps with at least one million annual first installs on iOS in the EU during the preceding year. This requirement serves as a testament to an app’s popularity and appeal, ensuring that apps offered through websites have a proven track record of user engagement.
Installation and Permission: Empowering Users
When installing apps from websites, users will encounter a system sheet that provides essential details about the app, including its name, developer, description, and screenshots. Crucially, users must explicitly grant permission for the developer to install the app, emphasizing Apple’s commitment to user control and transparency. This process empowers users to make informed decisions about the apps they install on their devices.
Financial Implications: Balancing Fees and Innovation
Developers distributing apps through websites will not incur the traditional App Store commission. However, Apple introduces a “Core Technology Fee” of €0.5 for each annual install over one million in the preceding year. This fee acknowledges the infrastructure and services that Apple continues to provide, ensuring the seamless functioning of apps on iOS devices. Nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities are exempt from this fee, fostering innovation and accessibility in key sectors.
Conclusion
iOS 17.5 marks a new era of app distribution in the EU, empowering developers with the freedom to connect with users through their websites. By adhering to Apple’s established requirements, developers can unlock the potential of this expanded market while ensuring the safety, reliability, and quality of their apps. As the EU’s Digital Markets Act continues to shape the technology landscape, Apple’s response highlights its commitment to fostering innovation, promoting competition, and empowering users in the digital age.