Developers must consider whether leaving the App Store is worth it. EU developers now have the option to sell apps outside the App Store, but the decision to leave or stay is complex. There are various factors to consider before deciding. Staying with Apple for free apps has its benefits, as it provides access to the largest App Store and involves no fees. However, the discoverability issue remains, regardless of the alternative app store’s size or popularity. While alternative app stores might not charge fees for free apps, developers face challenges for freemium apps. Under Apple’s new EU terms, developers face additional charges, such as the Core Technology Fee, regardless of where the app is sold.
Signing up for Apple’s new EU terms means that developers no longer pay a 15% or 30% cut for a paid app, but they could become subject to the Core Technology Fee, which applies to every app sale, free or paid. Additionally, a user’s reinstall of an app can potentially incur an additional fee. The 17% or 10% commission for apps and in-app purchases helps offset this cost. It is a delicate balance that depends on estimates of app popularity.
Developers who are very popular may consider setting up their own alternative app store to sell their apps. However, this route involves additional costs, such as payment processing and the need for a line of credit. Large developers who are well-versed in payment processing and have numerous app sales may find it more beneficial to set up their own app store. On the other hand, smaller developers may be best off paying Apple due to the cost of running their own backend payment systems. In any case, the decision to switch away from Apple’s App Store requires a careful cost/benefit analysis and thorough consideration before taking action.
