Apple allows alternative payments for apps in the Netherlands

Apple announces that it now allows alternative payments for in-app purchases in the Netherlands. The manufacturer does this not because he wants to please the Dutch, but because the local competition authority (ACM) obliges him to do so.

Alternative payments for apps in the Netherlands

Alternative payments in the Netherlands are only for dating apps, initially at least. Developers can continue to use Apple’s system and therefore simplify their lives. This involves a commission of 15% or 30% depending on the case which is paid to Apple. Otherwise, they will be able to use an alternative payment system and therefore have a reduced commission.

Choosing a third-party payment has repercussions. Apple indicated :

Since Apple will not have direct knowledge of purchases made using alternative methods, Apple will not be able to assist users with refunds, purchase history, subscription management and other issues encountered when purchasing digital goods and services through these alternative purchasing methods. It will be your responsibility to resolve these issues with customers.

Apple had until January 15 (today therefore) to comply with the requirements of the competition authority in the Netherlands. The group also notes that it contests this decision:

Because we do not believe these orders are in the best interests of our users, we have appealed the ACM’s decision to a higher court. We are concerned that these changes will compromise users’ experience and create new threats to their privacy and data security. In the meantime, we are required to make the mandatory changes we are launching today and will provide more information shortly.

Apple concludes on the subject by saying that it will soon share more information on this whole business of third-party payments.