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Apple purges apps without contact info from EU app store, as DSA deadline hits
Apple has removed apps from the EU App Store that lack required contact information as mandated by the Digital Services Act (DSA), effective February 18, 2025. Developers must now disclose their trader status, including address, phone number, and email, or risk removal. This change particularly affects smaller and indie developers who may not typically provide such information.
Key points
- Apple removed apps without trader status from the EU App Store as of February 18, 2025.
- The DSA requires app developers to provide contact information for consumer inquiries, impacting their submission of new apps or updates.
- Smaller developers, often working from home, face challenges complying, as they usually do not publicize contact details.
- The law categorizes any app generating revenue as a trader, requiring them to register contact info.
- Many smaller developers are utilizing third-party services for privacy, such as virtual offices and phone numbers.
Why it matters
- This action reflects a broader trend in 2025 towards increased regulation and transparency in the tech industry, especially concerning user privacy and consumer protection.
- Historically, similar regulations have emerged worldwide in response to concerns over data management and accountability, influencing how apps engage with users.
The removal of non-compliant apps from the EU App Store underlines the implications of the DSA on app developers, particularly smaller entities, posing new challenges for their operation in the market while emphasizing the need for transparency and compliance.