- European Union regulators said they want to question Apple over accusations that it blocked video game company Epic Games from setting up its own app store, in a possible violation of digital rules that took effect in the 27-nation bloc Thursday.
- The European Commission, the EU’s top antitrust watchdog, said in a statement Thursday that it has “requested further explanations on this from Apple under the DMA.” The rules threaten penalties that could reach into the billions for violations.
- The commission said it’s “also evaluating whether Apple’s actions raise doubts on their compliance” with other EU regulations including the Digital Services Act, a second set of regulations in the bloc’s digital rulebook that prohibit tech companies from ”arbitrary application” of their terms and conditions.
Why would they need to comply with Apple’s ToS to publish apps outside of the app store?
They would, because if they make an App Store, there is an agreement that they have to sign, basically paying Apple a bunch of fees every time anyone downloads soemthing
I think Apple still manages third party app stores too. And there will be rules. If this was totally without rules or terms, then it would just mean it’s wide open to side loading. It wouldn’t mean there was a new alternative App Store system.
It being totally without rules or terms is exactly what the EU demanded.
That is just not true. The DMA asks for bans on self-favoritism, regulations on data use and data interoperability to bans on discrimination and over all fair conditions. This far from without rules or terms.
Interesting. So the stuff about a letter of credit or the App Store download number requirements are both not being enforced?
Sandboxing isn’t a requirement for apps or anything else?
I can just make a side loading App Store and invent new app types and software types for iOS and install them how ever I like as an App Store owner?
I don’t mean they manage them like they are the manager of a physical store. I just mean there are still platform rules, and agreements and TOS. Things alternative app stores need to adhere to.
If I’m mistaken, and alternative app stores can say, install a Springboard replacement, that’s big news I missed.
The EU demands that alternative app stores or individual users can do exactly that.
Apple disagrees.
That’s precisely why this is back in court.
I see. I didn’t realize they were demanding that it goes so deep as to demand the ability to replace the system software.