Apple will grudgingly allow dating app developers in the Netherlands to use alternative payment methods in the App Store, but it doesn't like it, and the score hasn't been settled yet.
The update on Apple's developers' blog on Friday said that dating app developers will have two new optional entitlements in the App Store. Most developers worldwide are obligated to use Apple's in-app payment system, but they will also be able to include an in-app link directing users to their website to make a purchase or use a third-party payment system in the app.
Developers can only choose one of the two entitlements and have to request it from Apple. If you want to continue using Apple's in-app payment system, no action is needed.
Apple said that it designed the App Store to be a safe place and that it was concerned that the changes could compromise the user experience. We are obligated to make the mandated changes which we are launching today and we will provide further information shortly.
Some App Store features will not be available for users of dating app developers who request entitlements because we cannot verify the security and safety of payments that take place outside of the App Store's private and secure payment system.
Apple will not be able to help users with refunds, purchase histories, subscription management, or other issues when using alternative payment methods.
Apple said you will be responsible for addressing issues with customers.
The company probably would have put the "you" in all caps if it wasn't worried about appearances.
The new payment options in the Netherlands will be available soon.
You can probably guess that Apple didn't offer the new entitlements out of kindness of its Big Tech heart. The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets, also known as the ACM, is forcing Apple to give dating app developers alternative payment options.
The conditions Apple applied to dating app developers were unreasonable, according to a decision published in December. Apple takes advantage of dependency on the App Store by requiring app providers to use its in-app payment system, according to the ACM. The regulator gave Apple two months to give these developers additional payment options and threatened it with fines if it didn't comply.
Apple is appealing the decision.
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