Apple will allow certain media apps to connect outside of the App Store for payments

Apple has been criticized a lot lately over the 30% cut that app developers need. Starting next year, however, some developers will be able to avoid paying the tech giant a commission. The company announced that it will update the App Store in early 2022 to allow ‘reader’ app developers to add embedded links to their websites, allowing users to set up their accounts and perform payments. Apple defines reading apps as those that “provide previously purchased content or content subscriptions for digital magazines, newspapers, books, audio, music and videos.” As Bloomberg notes, that means the new rule would apply to services like Netflix and Spotify.

The tech giant announced the update following the conclusion of an investigation by the Japan Fair Trade Commission. Apple agreed with the commission to allow developers of playback apps to add a unique link to their website because these developers “do not offer in-app digital goods and services for purchase.” The change will cover all reading apps around the world, but Apple will update its guidelines and review process first before it takes effect.

Phil Schiller, Head of App Store Oversight, said, “We have great respect for the Japan Fair Trade Commission and appreciate the work we have done together, which will help developers of reading apps make it easier to read. user configuration. set up and manage their applications and services, while protecting their privacy and maintaining their trust. “

Netflix and Spotify have long criticized Apple for taking 30% of their revenue. Spotify filed a complaint against Apple with the European Commission in 2019 over the tech giant’s anti-competitive practices. Refusing to pay a 30% commission, this prevented users from paying for premium upgrades from the iOS app. Netflix also removed the ability for users to pay for a subscription in its iOS app in 2018.

Since the next update won’t cover games, it won’t be able to end Apple’s legal battle with Epic. The game developer has led the charge against the tech giant for the past year or so since deciding to offer discounts on Fortnite ‘s V-bucks and other cash purchases outside of the App Store. Apple deleted Fortnite from the App Store in response, and the resulting lawsuit brought some very interesting information to light. Tim Cook’s testimony in court revealed that many developers are not happy with Apple, while court documents have shown that Epic pays publishers millions of dollars to offer their games for free on its store.