Apple has announced significant policy changes benefiting iOS app developers in the European Union. Here’s what you need to know:
Expanded Distribution Options:
Apple’s latest update, iOS 17.4, introduces support for third-party app stores featuring a range of products, including both third-party and Apple’s own apps. This update allows developers to establish stores exclusively for their own applications, granting them greater control over distribution.
Customized In-App Promotions:
Developers now have the freedom to direct users to their websites for transactions, enabling them to tailor promotions, discounts, and other offers within their apps. Gone are the days of adhering strictly to Apple’s promotional template.
Direct Distribution from Developer Sites:
Apple is permitting developers to distribute their applications directly from their websites, subject to specific criteria. To qualify, developers must have been part of the Apple Developer Program for at least two years and have products with over 1 million installations on EU iOS devices in the preceding year. Moreover, compliance with Apple’s privacy regulations for user data collection and processing is mandatory.
Authorized developers will gain access to a specialized API to streamline the distribution process and integrate seamlessly with system functions, backup, and data recovery, adds NIX Solutions. These changes will take effect with the release of the upcoming iOS update this spring, marking a significant shift as Apple allows iOS software to be downloaded directly from websites.
This announcement represents a significant step forward for EU iOS developers, offering them greater autonomy and flexibility in app distribution and promotion.