What are the new European regulations for releasing a mobile application?

How an app works

A mobile application, or "app", is software developed specifically for use on a mobile terminal (a phone or tablet), which must be downloaded via one of the existing marketplaces: Google Play Store for Android or the App Store for Apple.

Once downloaded, it then runs on the phone's operating system: iOS for Apple and Android for Samsung, Xiaomi or Google. But do you have to go through the App Store or Google Play Store to create an app?

New guidelines for app distribution

The Digital Markets Act (DMA) came into force on March 6, 2024. This new regulation aims to combat the domination of major technology companies by forcing them to comply with a number of new obligations and prohibitions. Among the companies targeted by the European Commission are digital giants Apple and Google. Since March 6, 2024, they have had to comply with the new rules imposed by the DMA. But in concrete terms, what does this mean for you?

One of the main new features: the obligation to use the Google Play Store or the App Store to distribute an application has been abolished. From March 6, 2024, Apple will allow mobile applications to be installed on an iPhone from stores other than the Apple App Store. A godsend for certain developers who have been calling for an end to the monopoly for years.

It is now possible to distribute an application directly from a website, i.e. outside the App Store. To avoid monopolies and allow free competition, Apple can no longer force you to use its operating system.

To comply with the European Union's new Digital Markets Regulation (DMA), Apple has been forced to modify the rules of its App Store.

What are Apple's new criteria for distributing an app on the web?

To facilitate the distribution of apps on the web, Apple has put in place mechanisms that allow them to be integrated into the system, backed up and restored easily.

The distribution of applications directly from a platform, i.e. outside the App Store, is strictly regulated. To be eligible for web distribution, as a developer, you must meet certain requirements:

  • have been enrolled in the Apple Developer Program for at least 2 consecutive years;
  • have an app that has been the subject of more than one million first annual installations on iOS in the EU during the previous calendar year;
  • Make your data collection policy public;
  • only offer applications produced from your Apple developer account;
  • comply with the laws applicable in the country where you do business;
  • be able to respond to government requests to withdraw the download of your app ;
  • be receptive to communications from Apple regarding your web-distributed application, in particular any fraudulent, malicious or illegal behavior, or any other matter that impacts the security, safety or privacy of users;
  • be domiciled and/or registered in Europe.

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What are the costs involved in distributing apps?

If you want to distribute an app on the web, you'll still be subject to the basic technology fee. You'll be required to pay Apple €0.50 for each additional installation, in excess of one million downloads in the last 12 months.

The first annual installations are therefore free, up to a limit of one million downloads, for apps distributed from the App Store and/or other marketplaces, if you are registered with the Apple program. The Basic Technology Fee (BTC) applies once the million download mark has been passed.

This commission is explained by the fact that Apple provides developers with an ongoing investment in the tools, technologies and services that enable them to create and share innovative applications with their users.

How do apps installed on other sales platforms work?

Since the implementation of the Digital Market Regulation (DMA), users can install an app from another sales platform on their iPhone, by downloading it from your website.

All apps listed on other app sales platforms undergo a notarization process with Apple. This review ensures that each app meets basic standards of security, confidentiality and device integrity. In other words, notarization ensures that your apps do not contain malware, viruses or other security threats, and that they do not expose users to the risk of fraud.

Please note, however, that Apple does not offer support for purchases made outside the App Store or the App Store's integrated purchasing system. If a user wishes to receive assistance with a purchase made on your sales platform, they must contact you directly.

Now you know all about the new rules for app distribution in Europe! So don't wait any longer to release your own mobile app.