Apple announces major changes to the App Store

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Apple will allow developers to include links to webpages where users can sign up or manage their account.
As part of a separate lawsuit settlement, Apple is paying out $100 million and is making more changes to the App Store.

Apple has announced some significant changes to the App Store as part of multiple investigations and lawsuits into App Store practises.

As a result of the Japan Fair Trade Commission (JFTC) investigation, Apple will allow developers of “reader” apps to include a link that redirects to their website, allowing users to sign up to a service or manage their account. It means users can sign up to paid plans outside of the App Store and prevents Apple from taking a 15-30% cut.

Apple says that “reader” apps are those that provide access to a library of paid for or subscribed-for content, such as digital magazines, books, newspapers, audio, music and video. The selection of apps will range from large ones like Netflix and Spotify, to smaller ones offering a more limited range of digital content.

The change will come into effect in 2022 and won’t be limited to Japan. Apple will be updating the App Review and App Store guidelines prior to this.

Last week, Apple also settled a class-action lawsuit with U.S developers. It has agreed to expand the number of app, in-app purchase and subscription price points available and is paying out $100 million as part of the settlement. Developers will also be permitted to send out communication to users about other purchase methods available, such as subscribing through a website rather than iPhone or iPad app.

It follows legal action from Epic Games, launched last year, that disputes the 30% fee that Apple takes from developers, and the restrictions that it places on its platforms. The trial ended in late May, and a verdict will be published later this year.

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Published to Apple Scoop on 2nd September, 2021.