Apple promises App Store concessions in EU to avoid sanctions after 26 June

Apple is in active talks with the European Commission to relax App Store rules in the EU ahead of 26 June. Changes are being considered on external links to payments and Core Technology Fee to avoid large fines.

Here's What We Know

Apple is in an active "last round" of Digital Markets Act (DMA) talks with the European Commission to avoid major new fines. According to Financial Times sources, the company has until 26 June 2025 to agree changes to App Store rules for the EU marketplace

Key points of discussion:

• Anti-steering: restrictions preventing developers from directing users to third-party offerings are likely to be relaxed
• Core Technology Fee: Apple's €0.50 commission for each annual install payment above 1 million downloads - also likely to be reconsidered
• Similar concessions are already in place in the US following court rulings on Epic Games, and may be carried over to the European market

The European Commission has already fined Apple €500m for breaching the DMA and given it two months to bring the rules into line. If violations remain after 26 June - fines could be up to 5% of Apple's daily global turnover.

However, even if Apple fails to implement the changes by 26 June, the fines will not be imposed immediately. The European Commission can give it a buffer of 60 days, as negotiations are active and both sides are focused on the result.

Source: EC DMA