The Australian government is proposing new competition rules that could compel Apple to allow iPhone users to download apps from outside its App Store and avoid its in-app purchase fees. Apple has warned against adopting EU-style regulations, arguing they would introduce privacy and security risks, such as malware and fraud, and potentially harm competition. The tech giant maintains its current fee structure is fair, with most developers paying a 15% cut.
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TL;DR: Key points with love ❤️The Australian government is proposing new competition rules that could compel Apple to allow iPhone users to download apps from outside its App Store and avoid its in-app purchase fees. Apple has warned against adopting EU-style regulations, arguing they would introduce privacy and security risks, such as malware and fraud, and potentially harm competition. The tech giant maintains its current fee structure is fair, with most developers paying a 15% cut.
Trending- 1 November 2024: The Australian government released a paper outlining its proposal to regulate digital platforms.
- 2 Approximately one year ago: Hearings concluded for Epic Games' case against Apple and Google.
- 3 June 5, 2025 (Thursday): The Guardian published an article detailing Apple's response to the Australian government's proposal.
- Potential for increased privacy and security risks for users, according to Apple.
- Potential for greater user freedom and choice in app downloads and payments.
- Continued global regulatory and legal pressure on Apple regarding its App Store dominance.
- Possible changes to Apple's business model in Australia.
What: The Australian government is proposing new competition rules that could allow iPhone users to download apps from outside the Apple App Store and avoid extra charges on in-app purchases.
When: A government paper outlining the proposal was released in November last year (2024); the article was published on Thursday (June 5, 2025); a federal court judgment on Epic Games' case against Apple and Google is pending for nearly one year.
Where: Australia; with references to the European Union (EU), Asia, and the US regarding similar regulatory pressures.
Why: To address what the Australian government deems anti-competitive conduct by digital platforms like the Apple App Store and to foster greater competition and consumer choice.
How: The government plans to 'designate' digital platforms, which would then be compelled to comply with obligations targeting anti-competitive behaviors, including restrictions on in-app payment schemes and mandating sideloading.