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Apple Pledges Fairer App Store Treatment for Developers

9to5Mac •
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Apple has made four commitments to third-party developers to address longstanding concerns about preferential treatment in the iPhone app market. The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) announced the proposals, which aim to ensure fair app review, ranking, data collection, and interoperability practices for apps competing with Apple's own services.

These promises come after years of criticism from global competition regulators about Apple's dual role as both platform owner and app developer. The CMA is now seeking public comments on whether these measures go far enough to level the playing field. Apple and Google will be required to review apps fairly, rank competing apps transparently, protect developer data, and provide clearer pathways for interoperability requests.

The CMA will closely monitor implementation, tracking interoperability requests and their outcomes. Apple stated the changes provide great opportunities for developers while maintaining privacy and security standards. The deadline for public comments is March 3, with implementation required by April 1. This marks a significant shift in how Apple operates its App Store, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape for iPhone app developers.