Apple’s EU Payment Warning Controversy
Recently, reports claimed that Apple added a red warning icon on the EU App Store next to apps not using Apple’s payment system. The warning seemed to discourage users from using third-party payment systems allowed under the new EU law, the Digital Markets Act (DMA).
Clarification from Apple
Apple clarified that the warning messages were not new. These warnings have been part of Apple’s DMA compliance plan since March 2024. Reports suggesting that these warnings were newly added were inaccurate and misleading.
Why the Warning Raised Concerns
The warning caused concern because of Apple’s recent legal battles, including a lawsuit with Epic Games. The court ruling required Apple to allow external payment options in the U.S. Without compromising its revenue, Apple appeared to be sending a message against the loss of commissions.
The Role of Social Media in the Controversy
The controversy gained traction after a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). The post shared an App Store listing for Instacar, showing the warning message about using external payments, which many believed was a new tactic from Apple to punish third-party payment usage.
The Digital Markets Act (DMA)
The DMA is a new EU law regulating large tech platforms, including Apple. Under this law, users are allowed to use external payment systems for app purchases. Apple, however, has continued to enforce its commission policies despite these legal changes.
Purpose of the Warning Messages
Apple introduced the warnings to inform users about the security of external payment systems. These warnings remind users that apps using external payment systems might expose them to risks, reinforcing the safety of Apple’s own payment system.
Misunderstanding Around the Warning’s Purpose
The widespread belief that Apple was punishing apps using external payments stems from confusion. While the warnings were designed to inform, some users saw them as a tactic to pressure developers into sticking to Apple’s payment system.
Not a New Strategy
The warnings in question were not new. They have been part of Apple’s strategy since the DMA was enacted, although they are only now gaining visibility as more developers adopt external payment systems allowed by the law.
Jacob Eiting’s Clarification
Jacob Eiting, CEO of RevenueCat, clarified the confusion by pointing out that these warnings have been in place for a while. The increased visibility of the warnings is a result of the growing adoption of external payment systems under the DMA.
Future Plans and Policy Adjustments
Apple plans to update its user warnings. By August 2024, the company will modify its messaging to indicate that transactions in apps using external payment systems are supported by the developer and not Apple, offering more flexibility while protecting its commission model.
