In a significant move aligning with the Digital Services Act (DSA), Apple has purged all non-compliant apps from its European Union App Store as of February 18. This decisive action comes in response to the DSA's mandate that app developers disclose their "trader status" to submit new apps or updates for distribution in the EU market. The regulation defines any app generating revenue through the App Store, whether via paid downloads, in-app purchases, or advertising, as a "trader."
The DSA stipulates that organizations distributing apps within the EU must prominently display their contact information, including phone numbers, email addresses, and physical addresses linked to their D-U-N-S Number. This information is now positioned below app details such as age rating and supported languages but above the link to the developer's website. The February 17, 2025 deadline for compliance was known in advance, making Apple's subsequent action unsurprising to developers.
Smaller and indie app developers have felt the brunt of these requirements more acutely. Many of these developers do not typically disclose their addresses or phone numbers for consumer interactions. To comply with the new regulations while maintaining privacy, some developers have resorted to using coworking spaces, virtual offices, or PO boxes as business addresses. Others have opted for virtual phone numbers rather than exposing personal contact details on the public App Store.
The DSA aims to enhance transparency and accountability among app developers and publishers. By mandating that developers provide their "trader status," including address, phone number, and email information to consumers, the regulation seeks to bolster consumer trust and facilitate more straightforward complaint handling. The addition of these requirements under Articles 30 and 31 has set a new precedent for app transparency in the EU.
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