Apple's recent adjustments to its fee structure under the European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA) have sparked strong criticism from prominent tech companies like Epic Games and Spotify. Both companies have been vocal opponents of Apple's practices, and the latest changes have only intensified their dissatisfaction.
Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, took to social media to express his frustration, labeling Apple's new fees as 'junk fees.' He accused Apple of 'malicious compliance' with the DMA by imposing a 15% fee on users who switch to competing app stores, calling the move both illegal and detrimental to fair competition.
Spotify, the world's leading music streaming service, also voiced its concerns. In a statement covered by TechCrunch, Spotify criticized Apple's new rule changes, stating that they blatantly disregard the DMA's fundamental requirements. Spotify highlighted Apple's demand for up to a 25% fee for basic user communication, calling it 'unacceptable' and urging the European Commission to expedite its investigation and enforce the DMA more rigorously.
These reactions come after Apple introduced a revised fee structure that includes an Initial Acquisition Fee of 5% and a Store Services Fee of 10% on sales made through alternative app stores or external links. The fee structure has variations based on the developer's status, but it effectively ensures that Apple continues to collect fees even on transactions made outside of the App Store.
Epic Games and Spotify appear to be pushing for a ruling that would prevent Apple from collecting any fees on purchases made outside its platform. Apple, however, argues that it deserves a share of these transactions, as users initially gained access to the apps through the App Store.
With tensions running high, all eyes are on how the European Commission will respond to these developments and whether Apple's new fees will withstand legal scrutiny under the DMA.