Mac and iOS software developer MacPaw has become one of the first companies in the EU to publicly adopt Apple's new DMA (Digital Markets Act) rules, making Setapp, a subscription-based platform for select apps, available on iOS. and to Apple customers on Mac. region. The move is notable given that Apple has faced backlash in the past regarding its compliance with new EU regulations.
A number of companies, including Spotify, Fortnite maker Epic Games, Microsoft, Mozilla, Proton, and others, announced Apple's new system in “bad faith,” calling it “extortion” and “malicious compliance.” At issue is how Apple plans to impose a new core technology fee so the iPhone maker can continue to profit from apps distributed outside of its own App Store. These apps will have to pay Apple 0.50 euros per annual install for the first time once they exceed the 1 million user threshold, making it difficult for manufacturers of large apps and games with millions of users and players to pay This is an expensive measure. Apple justifies the fee by pointing out that it offers more than an App Store and payment processing, it also offers the mobile platform iOS and all the tools to build and share apps on iOS.
While other companies have fought against Apple's DMA rules, MacPaw has chosen to opt-in. This is a one-way conversion that does not currently provide the ability to revert to Apple's existing rules. In doing so, MacPaw plans to offer a beta version of his Setapp subscription service in the EU in April this year after DMA regulations begin.
Image credits: MacPaw Set App
This subscription service features ad-free content from over 20 developers, including SnapMotion, PhotosRevive, Rocket Typist, Dropshare, Expenses, Elk, BusyCal, Letterly, Study, Focused Work, Be Focused, Cloud Outliner, SideNotes, Awesome Habits, and more. Premium apps are provided. Elephas, GetSound, PDF Search, SQLPro Studio, Taskheat, and ClearVPN.
These apps include a variety of categories, including productivity and business tools, creative and design software, lifestyle tools, and utility apps. The current version of Setapp offers dozens of apps starting at $9.99 per month, depending on the platform and number of devices. Pricing for the EU version has not yet been announced.
The company says that participating developers will not be prevented from marketing their apps individually on the App Store using a different bundle ID, but that the choice of where to buy their apps will be left to EU consumers. says. The service has been likened to an alternative app store, but to be clear, it includes an all-you-can-access subscription to apps, which is not Apple's App Store model. .
It's unclear whether this will ultimately benefit software companies, given concerns about additional fees associated with the new rules. However, for developers looking for additional distribution, another channel to reach iOS users could be beneficial if MacPaw's terms can be agreed upon.
MacPaw could not predict at this time whether the move would lead to increased revenue.
“Building a profitable business model takes both time and market feedback,” MacPaw CEO Oleksandr Kosovan said in an email shared with TechCrunch. “We are committed to investing in this opportunity to improve the customer experience and deliver greater value to developers who buy into our model,” he said.
MacPaw has reportedly already accepted Apple's new terms. Currently, the company is inviting customers and developers to join a beta waiting list, but expects that number to grow over time.