Every budding developer dreams of creating an app that goes viral and makes lots of money overnight.
But, overall, the numbers make it clear that mobile apps dont guarantee wealth.
On Apples iPhoneand iPad platforms, the App Store is the only way to distribute apps.
Until recently,AppleandGooglesstores charged a 30% commission fee.
Epic Games lostbut Apple was subject to App Stores changes that are on hold.
Both Epic Games and Apple are appealing.
Epic Games has filed a similar case against Google, which is set to go to trial in 2023.
App stores set the rules on privacy, security and even what types of apps can be made.
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FlickTypewas developed as a third-party keyboard for iPhones and Apple Watches in 2019.
Some apps take much longer than this to develop.
In 2021 a group of UK-based developers filed a 1.5 billioncollective action suitagainst Apple over its store fees.
The case will be heard in the UK.
For instance, when Apple builds a music app, rivals such as Spotify argue this is unfair.
Alternative app stores
The EUs Digital Markets Actcould be in force by Spring 2023.
In February 2022 a US senate panel approved a bill that aims torein inapp stores.
Independent developers have no real leverage against international billion-dollar companies.
Google has beencriticizedfor failing toprovide meaningful clarificationwhen it removes apps from its store.
Users privacy
Apple expressedsecurity and privacy concernsabout allowing apps from other stores on its devices.
Third-party app stores are likely to create a trade-off between user freedom and user safety.
Some users may prefer Apple and Googles approach to privacy.
The Digital Markets Act might force Apple to reconsider.
The DMA wont deliver results for users and developers unless it is properly implemented.
The European Commission itself looks set tobecome a dedicated regulatorfor the first time.
