Tech Brew Ride Home Fri. 01/26 – CRACK! The App Store Opens Up. Or Does It?
Jan 26, 2024
Apple's App Store is undergoing significant changes, allowing alternative marketplaces and default browsers in the EU. Developers are concerned about new commission structures that could impact freemium apps. Game streaming services are now welcome, shaking up the gaming landscape. OpenAI has also made headlines with reduced pricing for its models. Meanwhile, the self-driving car company Cruise faces federal investigations over leadership and regulatory challenges.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Biggest App Store Overhaul
- Apple's App Store is getting its biggest overhaul ever, including support for alternative app marketplaces in the EU.
- This change also includes allowing third-party default browsers and web engines in the EU.
EU App Store Changes
- Alternative app marketplaces will have a 0% commission but a $0.50 core technology fee per install annually in the EU.
- Apple will reduce commissions for existing App Store developers in the EU.
Third-Party Browsers in EU
- Starting with iOS 17.4, users in the EU can set default browsers like Chrome, Firefox, etc., on first Safari launch.
- Apple is opening up APIs enabling third-party web engines beyond WebKit.