Apple will allow dating apps to use third-party payment options on the Netherlands App Store

Apple will allow dating apps to offer alternate in-app payment options on the Netherlands App Store in order to comply with the Dutch regulator’s ruling. Back in December, the Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) had released a ruling requiring Apple to let dating apps use payment systems other than Apple’s payment system in the App Store.

The company said in a blog post that it is introducing two optional new entitlements exclusively applicable to dating apps on the Netherlands App Store that provide additional payment processing options for users. Apple says, dating apps on the Netherlands App Store can include an in-app link directing users to a website or add a third-party payment system within a dating app on the Netherlands storefront.

Apple underlined that dating app developers using these entitlements must submit a separate app binary for iOS or iPadOS, which can only be distributed in the Netherlands App Store. 

However, if the developers chose to discontinue Apple’s payment service in favor of an alternative, Apple warned that it would not be able to assist users with refunds, purchase history, subscription management, and other issues encountered when purchasing digital goods and services through these alternative purchasing methods. 

Apple also said that it disagrees with the decision and is appealing it. 

“Because we do not believe these orders are in our users’ best interests, we have appealed the ACM’s decision to a higher court. We’re concerned these changes could compromise the user experience, and create new threats to user privacy and data security. In the meantime, we are obligated to make the mandated changes which we’re launching today and we will provide further information shortly.” the company said. 

Last week, The Korean Communication Commission (KCC) said that Apple has submitted its compliance plans to let developers use third-party payment options in apps in South Korea. The KCC said Apple plans to allow alternative payment systems for a lower service fee compared to the current 30% commissions.