Apple is making significant changes to its App Store operations in response to regulatory pressures and the departure of a key executive.
According to a report from Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple is splitting its App Store team into two separate units. This restructuring comes as the company prepares to allow alternative app stores on iOS devices in the European Union, following intervention from EU regulators.
The reorganization will be overseen by Phil Schiller, the Apple fellow who leads the App Store. One team will continue to manage Apple's own App Store, while a new team will handle apps from third-party sources in the EU.
This change coincides with the departure of Matt Fischer, who has served as Vice President in charge of the App Store and Apple Arcade. Fischer announced he is leaving Apple after a long tenure with the company.
The creation of a separate team to manage third-party app sources in the EU highlights the challenges Apple faces in complying with new regulations while attempting to maintain its traditionally tight control over the iOS app ecosystem. Apple had strongly resisted allowing alternative app stores, arguing it would increase security risks for users.
However, the company has been forced to adapt its policies in the face of regulatory pressure. In addition to allowing third-party app stores, Apple has made other concessions in the EU market, such as enabling alternative payment systems for in-app purchases.
These changes mark a significant shift for Apple, which has long maintained strict control over app distribution on its platforms. The company now faces the complex task of balancing regulatory compliance with its desire to maintain a secure and curated app experience for users.
As Apple navigates these changes, the impact on developers and users in the EU remains to be seen. The restructuring of the App Store team suggests Apple is taking steps to adapt to a new regulatory landscape while still aiming to differentiate its own App Store experience.
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| Apple's restructuring of its App Store reflects significant shifts in technology and regulatory compliance, impacting the digital landscape |