Apple has amended its App Store regulations to allow developers to contact consumers directly about purchases, as part of a judicial settlement with firms contesting the company's strict control. Developers may now contact customers directly about other payment options, skipping Apple's 15 or 30% fee, according to the new App Store guidelines. "As long as this request remains voluntary," the iPhone manufacturer noted, they will be able to ask consumers for basic information like names and e-mail addresses.
A judge ordered Apple to lessen its grip on its App Store payment alternatives in September, but Epic was unable to show that antitrust breaches had occurred. The option to divert customers to an out-of-app payment mechanism isn't enough for Epic and others; they want gamers to be able to pay without leaving the game. Both parties have filed appeals. Apple is also being investigated by US and European authorities for allegedly exploiting its market...
