NEWS  Apple  January 16, 2024  Reading time: 2 Minute(s)

Max (RS editor)

In response to impending regulations set forth by the European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA), Apple is gearing up for a significant transformation of its App Store. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple plans to split the App Store into two distinct entities specifically for the EU and the rest of the world. This move is part of the company's strategy to comply with the DMA, which requires Apple to enable app sideloading in the region.

 APPLE CEO TIM COOK [IMAGE: JOYCE KIM] 

Gurman, in his latest "Power On" newsletter, outlined the forthcoming changes that Apple is expected to roll out in the coming weeks. With a deadline of March 7 looming for compliance with the DMA, Apple has just over seven weeks to implement the necessary adjustments.

Last week, Apple CEO Tim Cook held discussions with Margrethe Vestager, the European Union's antitrust chief, at Apple Park. Vestager emphasized Apple's impending obligation to allow users to install third-party app stores and sideload apps under the DMA. Additionally, Apple will be mandated to provide developers with the ability to promote their offers outside the App Store and use third-party payment systems.

The DMA is anticipated to bring about substantial changes to the functioning of the App Store, FaceTime, and Siri in Europe. This regulatory push signifies a broader shift towards fostering competition and opening up opportunities for third-party app developers within Apple's ecosystem.

As Apple navigates these regulatory changes, the tech giant faces the challenge of balancing user experience, security concerns, and compliance with the evolving landscape of antitrust regulations. The upcoming split of the App Store in the EU reflects a proactive approach by Apple to adapt to the changing regulatory environment and ensure a seamless transition for both users and developers.

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