European regulators have pushed for changes to how Apple runs its App Store, claiming it will benefit consumers. But a new report suggests the opposite might be true. Instead of helping users, these rules could expose them to more risks and create more confusion.

The Reality Behind the Laws

Apple recently published a detailed report that questions whether the supposed benefits of lower App Store commissions actually reach European consumers. The report, paid for by Apple and conducted by experts at Analysis Group, shows that big developers in Europe haven’t lowered their prices despite paying less in commissions. Smaller developers outside Europe also seem to be the main beneficiaries, not the European users.

The theory behind these laws is simple: make it cheaper for developers to sell apps, and those savings will pass on to consumers. But the report shows that’s rarely happening. Developers tend to keep most of the savings or even increase their prices. So, consumers don’t see the benefit the laws promised.

Hidden Costs and Risks for Users

One major problem with the new rules is the increased security and privacy risks. As more app stores pop up, it becomes harder for users to tell which ones are safe. Regulation over these stores remains weak, making it easier for fraud and scams to thrive. Users might not even realize they’re exposing themselves to potential harm.

Another issue is the extra burden on Apple and device vendors. If users install apps from third-party stores, Apple often ends up providing tech support for problems that aren’t its fault. While Apple might try to help customers, it’s an added cost that’s passed on to everyone else. This can lead to a worse experience for most users, even as some benefit from cheaper apps.

What the Data Really Shows

The report highlights that, despite lower commissions, prices for apps and in-app purchases in Europe haven’t gone down. In fact, most developers kept prices steady or even raised them. Less than 5% of developers reduced prices after paying less in fees. And most of the savings from lower commissions went to developers outside Europe, not consumers.

This pattern isn’t new. When Apple introduced a program to reduce commissions for small developers, less than 5% lowered their prices. The same thing is happening now. The majority of developers are keeping the savings or using them to boost their profits, not to lower prices for users.

In the end, the evidence suggests that these laws might be more about satisfying those who want a bigger piece of the pie than actually helping consumers. It’s worth asking whether complaints about the “Apple Tax” are really about fairness or just about grabbing more money. The data points strongly toward the latter.

So next time someone bemoans Apple’s fees, remember who’s really benefiting. The big companies and lobbyists seem to be the ones walking away with the most. The real winners are those outside Europe, not the everyday user. The laws might sound good in theory, but in practice, they could do more harm than good for consumers.

Inspired by

• https://www.computerworld.com/article/4089287/apple-shows-that-app-store-liberalization-does-nothing-for-users.html

Sources

• gmpg.org
• apple.com
• apple.com
• applemust.com
• vivaldi.net