Apple Changes App Store Policies Under Regulatory Pressure

Under increasing scrutiny from global regulators and amid ongoing legal controversy, Apple has begun rolling out changes to its App Store policies that could significantly alter the iPhone user experience.

This shift comes in particular in response to new regulations in Europe, which now allow for alternative app stores and in-app promotions. Most notably, Apple recently greenlit a separate app store for Fortnite maker Epic Games and also allowed Spotify to advertise its seasonal promotions directly within its app, according to statements from both companies on Wednesday.

In the United States, following a lawsuit by the Department of Justice accusing Apple of monopolistic practices in smartphone services, the company announced that it would expand access to its NFC technology. This will allow apps to offer a wider range of services, including in-store payments, digital hotel keys, and membership card functionality.

These developments mark a significant turning point for Apple as it navigates the complex landscape of international technology regulation. The changes are set to provide more choices and improved functionality for iPhone users, potentially reshaping the way consumers interact with their devices.

Tripp Mickle, a veteran reporter for The New York Times, continues to cover these evolving stories from San Francisco. His reporting focuses on Apple’s adaptation to regulatory pressures, the broader tech landscape, including layoffs, and the rise of artificial intelligence and autonomous vehicles. This coverage is part of a larger narrative about how major tech companies are adapting to an increasingly regulated digital world.