Wednesday, January 22, 2025

App Store Trader Status Deadline

Apple:

Starting February 17, 2025: Due to the European Union’s Digital Services Act, apps without trader status will be removed from the App Store in the European Union until trader status is provided and verified, if necessary.

Apple:

To determine if you’re a trader, you should consider a range of non-exhaustive and non-exclusive factors (see those listed on page 2 in the EC’s Guidance), which may include:

Whether you make revenue as a result of your app, for example if your app includes in-app purchases, or if it’s a paid or ad-sponsored app — especially if you’re transacting in large volumes

[…]

Whether you develop your app in connection with your trade, business, craft, or profession—meaning that you’re acting in a professional/business capacity. You’re unlikely to be a trader for EU law purposes if you’re acting “for purposes which are outside your trade, business, craft, or profession.” For example, if you’re a hobbyist and you developed your app with no intention of commercializing it, you may not be considered a trader.

When I looked at this last year, it seemed like anyone selling apps would be considered a trader. This guidance from Apple adds confusion: what is a large volume? What does it mean to offer an app for sale with no intention of commercializing it?

Luc Vandal:

Still receiving this (again) despite confirmation that the status for my account is fine. This doesn’t inspire much confidence. Anyone else?

Drew McCormack:

Apple’s trader registration for the new EU rules is a complete shambles. I sent them the documents last March. They didn’t process them in time, and they expired. So, I get in contact and get assigned an issue number and person assigned to the issue, pay for up-to-date docs, and send them again. Silence. And the threats of cutting off my apps continue to flow in.

Previously:

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