The Coalition for App Fairness and Tim Sweeney of Epic Games equate Apple’s recent international App Store price increases for landlords that increase rental costs.
Apple increased App Store prices for many non-US customers without giving a direct reason. The increase affects all markets that use the euro, as well as Chile, Egypt, Japan, Malaysia, Pakistan, Poland, South Korea, Sweden and Vietnam.
The price increase corresponds to a price increase of approximately 20%. An app of 0.99 euros now costs 1.19 euros.
While Apple didn’t give an exact reasoning, looking at the global economy gives plenty of reason. The euro is weaker against the dollar than ever. In addition, international markets face the same global economic problems as the United States.
As expected, Apple’s most outspoken opponents have publicly commented on their displeasure with App Store price increases. Quotes obtained by means of protocol argue that Apple’s control of the App Store gives them unchecked power.
“These increases were made without the input or consent of app developers, highlighting the extent of Apple’s market power,” wrote Rick VanMeter, executive director of the App Fairness Coalition. “In no other industry can one company single-handedly raise the prices of another company’s products.”
Epic CEO Tim Sweeney added his own comments to the mix. He compared Apple to a landlord who adjusts the rent without giving tenants a say or going elsewhere.
“Developers don’t want to increase their app prices in the EU and UK,” Sweeney said in a follow-up tweet. “Consumers don’t want app price increases in the EU and UK. Central banks fighting inflation don’t want app price inflation.”
The argument, raised on a regular basisis that Apple should neither control the App Store nor prevent third parties from running their own stores iOS. Many of these issues were discussed in detail during the Epic Games vs Apple Trial.