Headlines
Developer fee cuts not passed on to EU users, Apple says
Published by Global Banking and Finance Review
Posted on November 12, 2025
2 min readLast updated: January 21, 2026
Quick Summary
Apple's fee cuts for EU developers haven't reduced app prices, with most savings going to non-EU developers. Apple criticizes EU regulations.
Apple's Developer Fee Reductions Fail to Lower Prices for EU Users
By Foo Yun Chee and Paul Sandle
BRUSSELS (Reuters) -Lower developer fees implemented by Apple to comply with European Union tech regulations have not reduced prices for users, the iPhone maker said on Wednesday, renewing its criticism of Europe's efforts to rein in its market power.
Last year, in response to the bloc's Digital Markets Act, Apple allowed software developers to distribute their apps to users in the EU outside its App Store and opt out of its in-app payment system, which charges commissions of up to 30%.
That reduced fees for developers to an average of 20%.
The U.S. tech giant, however, said a study it commissioned from Analysis Group showed that app developers have not passed on the cost savings to users.
"This study provides further evidence that the DMA is not benefiting consumers in the form of lower prices. At the same time, we know the regulation is creating new barriers for innovators and startups while exposing consumers to new risks," an Apple spokesperson said.
The report, which covered more than 41 million transactions for some 21,000 products, generating 403 million euros ($470 million) in sales for the period March to September 2024, said that developers kept the same prices or increased them for nine out of 10 products.
It said over 86% of the 20.1-million-euro reduction in commission fees went to non-EU developers.
($1 = 0.8575 euros)
(Reporting by Foo Yun Chee; Editing by Joe Bavier)
Key Takeaways
- •Apple's fee reductions for developers haven't lowered EU app prices.
- •The Digital Markets Act prompted Apple to allow app distribution outside its store.
- •Most cost savings benefited non-EU developers.
- •Apple criticizes EU regulations for not benefiting consumers.
- •A study showed 9 out of 10 products maintained or increased prices.
Frequently Asked Questions about Developer fee cuts not passed on to EU users, Apple says
1What is a developer fee?
A developer fee is a charge imposed by a platform provider, like Apple, for developers to distribute their apps or use certain services. This fee can vary based on the platform's policies and regulations.
2What is the Digital Markets Act?
The Digital Markets Act (DMA) is a regulation by the European Union aimed at ensuring fair competition in digital markets. It seeks to limit the market power of large tech companies and promote innovation.
3What is an in-app payment system?
An in-app payment system allows users to make purchases within an application. This system often involves a commission fee charged by the platform provider for processing these transactions.
4What is a commission fee?
A commission fee is a charge that a service provider, such as a payment platform, takes from a transaction. This fee is typically a percentage of the total transaction amount.
5What is a study commissioned by a company?
A study commissioned by a company is a research project funded by that company to gather data or insights on a specific topic, often to inform business decisions or strategies.
