Apple has made more revisions to its proposals to adhere to landmark EU tech regulations in response to criticism from app developers.
The US-based tech giant has notably dropped a controversial demand that required those wishing to establish alternative app marketplaces to furnish a stand-by letter of credit.
Under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), Apple, along with five other tech giants, is mandated to comply with a set of regulations aimed at curbing their dominance and fostering fair competition among rivals while providing users with more options. Compliance with the DMA is required by March 7, Reuters news report said.
Apple had initially unveiled proposals in January, which included provisions for software developers to distribute their apps to EU users outside of Apple’s App Store, along with revised fees and conditions.
In response to feedback, Apple has announced modifications to its proposals. One significant change allows developers to subscribe to the new terms at the developer account level, removing the requirement for each controlling membership to sign the Addendum individually.
Additionally, Apple has introduced a one-time option for developers to terminate the Addendum under specific circumstances, reverting to Apple’s standard business terms for their EU apps. Moreover, the company has abandoned the demand for a letter of credit from developers seeking to establish rival app marketplaces, instead implementing two eligibility criteria.
According to Apple, developers may operate alternative app marketplaces if their accounts have been active for at least two years and if they have an established app business in the EU with over 1 million First Annual Installs.
These adjustments reflect Apple’s efforts to address concerns raised by app developers while aligning with regulatory requirements set forth by the EU.