Apple announced plans to open up its iPhone App Store in Europe to competitors on Thursday, a move that opens up cracks in the company's famous "walled garden," with which it controls app distribution on its devices.
Apple said on Thursday that it believes the new regulation puts its users at risk for scams, fraud and abuse, because apps that don't go through Apple's App Store aren't reviewed for content and could contain malware.
Developers in general are likely to celebrate, as many have chafed for years over Apple's fees and rigorous App Review program that frequently rejects app updates.
The changes are restricted to Europe and accounts that are registered in the E.U., rather than changes to the way iPhone app distribution works in the U.S.
"Developers can now learn about the new tools and terms available for alternative app distribution and alternative payment processing, new capabilities for alternative browser engines and contactless payments, and more," said Apple App Store boss Phil Schiller in a statement.
Persons:
Tim Cook, Apple, Phil Schiller
Organizations:
Apple, National Committee, China Relations, China Business Council, Economic Cooperation, APEC, Digital Markets, Spotify, Microsoft, U.S
Locations:
Asia, San Francisco , California, Europe, U.S