Apple must allow alternative payment systems for dating apps
Apple must allow dating apps in the Dutch App Store to use alternative payment systems. That is what the Authority for Consumers & Markets (ACM) demands. Currently, the apps are only allowed to allow customers to pay via Apple’s own payment system.
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Apple must allow dating apps other payment systems
The ACM believes that Apple applies unreasonable conditions in the App Store. Of the money dating apps earn from iPhone users, they have to give 15 to 30 percent to the Cupertino company. In addition, they pay $99 a year to even get a spot in the App Store.
According to the ACM, this is disproportionate to the service that Apple provides. These conditions would therefore be contrary to the competition rules. Apple must allow such apps to use other payment systems within two months. They must also be able to refer to payment systems outside the app itself. Think of iDeal. This way they make more profit, because Apple does not collect a commission.
If the technology giant does not comply with the demand, a penalty of 5 million euros per week will be imposed, with a maximum of 50 million euros.
Apple late in a comment Tweakers do not agree with ACM’s requirement. The company is therefore appealing. “Apple does not have a dominant position in the Dutch software distribution market. In addition, we have invested a lot in helping dating app developers reach customers and let them thrive in the Dutch market. Under EU and Dutch law, we also have the right to charge these providers for all services and technologies that Apple offers them.”
Will other apps follow?
It is striking that the requirement is initially only about dating apps. According to the ACM, they would be most affected by the App Store conditions. Of course, if Apple’s appeal is rejected, there’s a very good chance that other apps will ask for the same privileges.
Apple has been under fire from app developers for some time because of the company’s controversial terms and conditions. In response, Apple announced last summer that the App Store will change.
