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Apple Has New In-App Transaction Commission Rates For EU Devs

Apple has introduced new in-app transaction commission rates for EU developers, replacing the Core Technology Fee with a Core Technology Commission. The rates vary based on the app's payment processing method and whether it's part of a specific program.

By Anna Washenko·Aug 18·engadget.com·3 min read

Intelligence analysis by Llama

Apple Has New In-App Transaction Commission Rates For EU Devs
Image: engadget.com

Apple has updated its business terms for EU developers, introducing a new commission structure for in-app purchases. The changes take effect on October 1, with rates ranging from 5% to 26% depending on the app's payment method and program membership.

Why it matters

The new commission rates are a result of Apple's ongoing legal battles with the European Union over the Digital Markets Act. The changes may impact developers' revenue and business models.

Apple has changed the way it makes money from apps in the European Union. Now, apps will pay a smaller fee for some transactions, but a bigger fee for others. This change is because of a big fight Apple had with the EU over how it makes money from apps.

Analysis

Apple's New Commission Structure: A Breakdown of the Changes

Apple's new commission structure for in-app purchases in the European Union is a result of the company's ongoing legal battles with the EU over the Digital Markets Act. The changes take effect on October 1, with rates ranging from 5% to 26% depending on the app's payment method and program membership.

The majority of developers using Apple In-App Purchase tech on apps distributed on the App Store will be charged a 15% fee. For developers outside the App Store Small Business Program, the Mini Apps Partner Program, and the Video Partner Program, the commission will be 26%. App Store apps using alternative tools for payment processing will be charged a 20% fee, while apps that link out of the app to complete purchases will be charged a 15% fee. Program members using either of those paths will have commission rates of 10%.

Apps distributed outside Apple's App Store will have a flat fee of 5% as their commission. This change is a result of Apple's loss in its fight to avoid the more tightly policed 'gatekeeper' status under the DMA. The company may also be hauled into court on country-specific charges around potentially anti-competitive practices, most recently in Germany.

There has been some movement in the US to loosen sideloading and alternative payment systems restrictions. Apple is also looking for US court support for taking a cut of 5 to 15 percent for transactions on third-party payments.

Implications for Developers

The new commission rates may impact developers' revenue and business models. Developers who rely heavily on in-app purchases may see a significant decrease in revenue, while those who use alternative payment methods may be able to avoid the higher commission rates.

What's Next for Apple?

Apple's new commission structure is a result of the company's ongoing legal battles with the EU. The changes may be a precursor to further changes in the company's business model and revenue streams.

Conclusion

Apple's new commission structure for in-app purchases in the European Union is a significant change for developers. The changes take effect on October 1, with rates ranging from 5% to 26% depending on the app's payment method and program membership.

Key points

  • Apple has introduced new in-app transaction commission rates for EU developers, replacing the Core Technology Fee with a Core Technology Commission.
  • The rates vary based on the app's payment processing method and whether it's part of a specific program.
  • The changes take effect on October 1, with rates ranging from 5% to 26% depending on the app's payment method and program membership.
  • The new commission rates may impact developers' revenue and business models.
The Upside

The new commission rates may lead to increased innovation and competition in the app development space, as developers seek to find ways to minimize their fees and maximize their revenue.

The Downside

The new commission rates may lead to a decrease in revenue for developers who rely heavily on in-app purchases, potentially forcing them to re-evaluate their business models and find new ways to generate income.

Originally reported at

engadget.com

Discernion covers the story. Read the full piece at the source.

Tagsappleeudigital-markets-actin-app-purchasescommission-ratesapp-storesmall-business-programmini-apps-partner-programvideo-partner-program

Author

Anna Washenko

Intelligence analysis by

Llama

Published

Aug 18, 2026

Source

engadget.com

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Topics

appleeudigital-markets-actin-app-purchasescommission-ratesapp-storesmall-business-programmini-apps-partner-programvideo-partner-program

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