Apple’s Conflict with Developers Poses a Threat to the Success of Vision Pro

An editorial argues that Apple’s lack of compliance with the European Digital Markets Act (DMA) is disrupting its relationship with the developers crucial for the success of Vision Pro. It suggests that the market for Vision Pro is relatively small, allowing developers to ignore it or make their iPad apps incompatible, something feasible if they are disgruntled by Apple’s actions.
The DMA, part of antitrust laws targeting technology companies, aims to enhance competition in the sector by removing advantages held by tech giants. Apple’s App Store was singled out for forcing developers to accept its terms, as it was the only platform to sell iPhone apps. The EU ruled that Apple must permit third-party software stores and give developers the option to opt out.
Apple’s decision to allow a third-party app store with stringent requirements has drawn criticism. The Coalition for App Fairness referred to Apple’s plans as a “shameless insult” to developers and lawmakers. Spotify accused Apple of acting as if it were above the rules.
Despite its prolonged history of contentious behavior, Apple’s recent actions have been deemed unusually audacious. Microsoft criticized Apple for heading in the wrong direction. Macworld described Apple’s response to the DMA as “bad tracking,” indicating intentional actions worsening the situation.
Apple’s changes to the EU iOS App Store, intended to comply with the DMA, have been labeled as bad tracking by many developers. The revised terms, which substantially increase costs for developers, could have negative implications for Vision Pro.
Jason Snell from the site suggests that antagonizing developers when the company needs their cooperation is a significant misstep. Vision Pro is reliant on developers to create apps that maximize the device’s potential. Now is not the time for arrogance, but rather for Apple to focus on making its platforms as appealing as possible. While there may not be direct EU terms affecting Vision Pro, Apple’s confrontations with crucial developers are worrisome. It appears to be a misguided move by the company and one that may deliberately provoke its biggest critics and irk regulators. Photo by Igor Omilaev on Unsplash FTC: We use affiliate links to earn money. More information.

Author: OpenAI