Apple: Will allow external payments to dating apps in the Netherlands

Apple will comply with a Dutch decision and will allow external payments for dating apps, which is the first time it accepts something similar within the App Store, according to Bloomberg.

Apple said late Friday it would take the necessary steps to allow developers to implement their own third-party payment services to pay for dating apps in the Netherlands, removing some “rights” as the company calls them. The change will also allow developers to direct Internet users to complete transactions.

However, the company will continue to receive its share of revenue, which has been heavily criticized by governments and developers in many countries. So far no details have been announced on how it will continue to receive its share, or how high it will be.

The tech giant also said that most developers selling dating apps are based outside the Netherlands, so any revenue generated by this change will not benefit the local economy. Apple added that developers who choose to use external payments will have to submit a separate version of their application specifically for the Netherlands.

“App developers using these permissions will need to submit a separate version of the app for iOS or iPadOS that can only be distributed in the Dutch App Store.”

The company also stressed that dating app developers can continue to use Apple’s system.

“Because Apple will not have direct knowledge of alternative purchases, Apple will not be able to assist users with refunds, purchase history, subscription management and other issues that arise when purchasing digital goods and services through these alternative buying methods “, the company said in a message to the developers posted on its website.

The company expressed its disagreement with the said decision stating that it would file an appeal. “Because we do not believe these orders are in the best interests of our users, we have appealed against ACM’s decision to a higher court,” Apple said. “We are concerned that these changes could jeopardize the user experience and create new threats to privacy and data security.”

Apple has been ordered by the Dutch market regulator (ACM) to allow dating apps to use other payment systems or face a fine of up to $ 57 million, with a deadline of January 15 to make the change.

According to ACM, Apple imposes “unreasonable terms” by not allowing the free option for app payments other than purchases within the AppStore.

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Source From: Capital

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