App developers are now required to provide their physical address, phone number, and email information to consumers on the App Store within the European Union. On Tuesday, Apple announced that it has removed EU apps that have not yet adhered to the Digital Services Act (DSA). This regulation, detailed in Articles 30 and 31, mandates that app developers disclose their “trader status” to submit new apps or updates for distribution within this market.
In a communication to developers, Apple stated that as of Tuesday, February 18, any apps lacking trader status have been removed from the EU App Store, and they will not be reinstated until their trader status is verified by Apple.
It remains uncertain how many developers have been affected by this new requirement, but it is likely that some have yet to update their information to comply with the guidelines, particularly those whose primary focus is not app development.
Developers have been aware of the February 17, 2025 deadline for a considerable period, so this announcement should not come unexpectedly.
Nonetheless, the EU legislation has significantly impacted smaller and independent app developers who typically do not disclose their addresses or phone numbers for consumer interactions. Many of these developers operate from home and usually provide an email address on their website for feedback and support.
Under the DSA, any app generating revenue through the App Store qualifies as a “trader,” whether that income derives from paid downloads, in-app purchases, or advertising. Additionally, an app is classified as such if used in relation to a “trade, business, craft, or profession,” indicating that anything beyond hobbyist applications falls under this guideline.
Entities publishing on the EU App Store are required to display their contact information, including phone number, email, and address linked to their D-U-N-S Number. Individual developers are also obligated to provide their address, phone number, and email, as per the guidelines.
In response to these new regulations, smaller developers have had to explore options to register their addresses and phone numbers through third parties to maintain some level of privacy. For example, some developers are utilizing coworking spaces, virtual offices, or PO boxes as business addresses, while others are opting for virtual phone numbers instead of revealing their personal numbers on the public App Store.
In the EU App Store, the newly required “trader” information is now displayed beneath other app details, such as age ratings and supported languages, but above the link to the developer’s website.
Compiled by Techarena.au.
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