Google Adds New Developer Fees in EU (Following Apple's Lead)!
0Get the scoop on Google's latest moves to comply with the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA), effective starting today. Yesterday, Google outlined its adjustments but left a critical detail in the dark: whether developers would be charged for sideloading apps outside the Play Store, and if so, how much.
Now, the cat's out of the bag—Google will indeed charge developers, similar to Apple's App Store model. According to new Play Console help section details, developers face two new fees:
An initial acquisition fee of 10% for in-app purchases or 5% for subscriptions for two years, reflecting Play's role in user acquisition.
An ongoing services fee of 17% for in-app purchases or 7% for subscriptions, covering services like parental controls, security, fraud prevention, and updates.
Though developers can opt out of ongoing fees after two years with user consent, Play services will cease. Google justifies these fees by highlighting the value it brings to the Android ecosystem, including free Android distribution and tools for developers.
This move mirrors Apple's approach, introducing new fees while reducing commissions. For instance, Apple now adds a 3% "payment processing" fee and a flat €0.50 fee for app downloads after the first 1 million installations.
Epic CEO Tim Sweeney has already criticized Google's compliance plans, anticipating a shift in developers' reactions. Stay tuned to see how developers navigate these changes and their impact on the digital landscape. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more updates on tech industry developments.