Apple announced a new step towards giving iOS app publishers more freedom in their use of the App Store. In a settlement of a competition investigation by the Japan Fair Trade Commission, the update will allow media apps to include an in-app link to their website for users to set up or manage an account. This means they are no longer required to use the Apple in-app payment system.
The covered apps are known as 'reader' apps, that provide previously purchased content or subscriptions for digital magazines, newspapers, books, audio, music, and video. The changes will apply worldwide, not just in Japan.
The Japan investigation was started nearly five years ago. The regulator accused Apple of violating the Antimonopoly Act by restricting competition in sales channels open to app developers. The JFTC said it has closed the case after Apple agreed to the changes to the App Store.
Apple said it agreed to the change because developers of reader apps do not offer in-app digital goods and services for purchase. As a result, these apps will be allowed to share a single link to their website to help users set up and manage their account.
Previously, this would have been grounds for ejection from the App Store, for not meeting Apple's terms and conditions and paying the 30 percent commission. It builds on other recent changes announced by Apple following increased regulatory pressure, such as also allowing developers to email or message customers about alternative payment methods. In Korea most recently, a law was passed prohibiting Apple and Google from limiting apps to their own in-app systems.
Before the change goes into effect in early 2022, Apple said it will update its guidelines and review process "to make sure users of reader apps continue to have a safe experience on the App Store". Apple said it will also help developers of reader apps protect users when they link them to an external website to make purchases.
