Apple dating app fees decision delayed by Dutch watchdog, pending EU action
Apple Revises App Store Fees in Response to EU Regulations
In a significant move to comply with the European Union's (EU) Digital Markets Act (DMA), Apple has revised its App Store fee structure and policies. The changes, announced in June 2025, aim to increase competition and reduce commission fees charged to app providers, including dating apps.
The new fee tiers are as follows: Tier 1 costs developers 5% of app revenue but omits features such as ratings and reviews, App Store marketing, search suggestions, and automatic updates/downloads. Tier 2, which costs 13% for full App Store features, is reduced to 10% for Small Business Program participants. Additionally, Apple charges a 2% initial acquisition fee and a 5% Core Technology Commission (CTC), replacing a previous controversial fee per app install.
Apple has also removed its anti-steering rules, allowing developers to direct users to third-party payment methods outside the App Store and to include unlimited links in their apps for alternative payment options. Developers who send customers outside the App Store pay a fee between 5% and 15% to Apple, depending on the specifics.
These changes come after the European Commission fined Apple €500 million in April 2025 for breaching the DMA by preventing developers from steering users towards cheaper, external payment options. Apple contested the fine, calling it unlawful and excessive, and filed an appeal in early July 2025.
As of late July 2025, sources indicate that the European Commission is expected to accept Apple's revised changes, thereby halting further daily fines that could have amounted to 5% of Apple's average daily worldwide revenue. However, the EU watchdog states all options remain on the table and is still assessing the proposed changes.
These developments reflect Apple's adaptation to new EU regulations aimed at fostering competition and reducing commission fees charged to app providers. It is important to note that these changes do not affect the Dutch antitrust regulator ACM's awaiting of the outcome of further adjustments to Apple's fees, particularly those related to dating apps. The Dutch court's ruling in June confirmed the ruling of the Dutch antitrust regulator ACM, stating that Apple abused its dominant position.
The European Commission, a key regulatory body in the European Union, continues to engage in ongoing discussions with Apple over these issues. Apple has announced that it will make further adjustments to its fees later this year. The exact nature of these adjustments is yet to be determined, but they are expected to contribute to a more competitive and fair App Store environment.
The revised App Store fee structure by Apple, influenced by EU regulations, includes a 5% commission for developers without access to full business features, such as ratings and reviews, while Small Business Program participants benefit from a reduced 10%. Moreover, finance-related developments include Apple's removal of the anti-steering rules, allowing businesses to leverage technology by directing users to third-party payment methods and incorporating unlimited links for alternatives.
