Apple Modifies App Store Policies to Permit External Purchases

New provisions have been created specifically for developers in the United States.

In reaction to recent legal developments in the Epic Games vs. Apple litigation, Apple has altered its guidelines concerning external payment options and links. These amendments empower developers to direct users away from the App Store for external transactions, aligning with the court's directives.

Apple's guidelines, especially sections 3.1.1, 3.2.1(a), 3.1.3, and 3.1.3(a), which pertain to acceptable purchase protocols, have been revised. While previous guidelines prohibited the inclusion of buttons, external links, or actions that could redirect customers to non-App Store purchase mechanisms, an exception is now made for apps available on the US store.

Legal Implications

Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers pronounced that Apple must not prevent app developers from embedding external purchase options, nor can it impede users' freedom to utilize third-party purchasing sites. Furthermore, Apple is barred from imposing fees on transactions conducted outside of its apps. As Apple appeals the ruling, it has stated compliance with the judicial order is underway.

Apple communicated to developers via an email, observed by 9to5Mac, explaining the updates to the App Review Guidelines in light of the US court decision. These alterations pertain specifically to app offerings distributed via the United States segment of the App Store.