Apple Enforces New EU Regulations: Developers Must Disclose Trader Information to Stay on App Store

In a significant move, Apple is mandating that developers within the European Union share their contact details to adhere to new regulations governing app stores. This requirement aims to enhance transparency, ensuring that app listings on the App Store include a phone number and a public address that will be visible to users. Failure to meet this requirement will result in the delisting of apps from the App Store after a specified deadline set by Apple.

On Thursday, Apple communicated through its Developer website that individuals holding EU Developer Accounts or serving as Admins in the Apple Developer Program are obligated to input their trader information via App Store Connect. This information is crucial, and without its submission, developers will find themselves unable to launch any new app or update existing ones.

The push for traders to register their details aligns with the EU's Digital Services Act. According to articles 30 and 31 of the DSA, Apple is required to authenticate and display trader contact information, making it accessible to customers across all 27 EU member states. This requirement is also extended to developers based in the EU who do not distribute their apps to users within the region.

For those participating as individuals in the Apple Developer Program, the information to be provided includes an email address, phone number, and either a physical address or a post office box. In contrast, accounts registered as organizations only need to submit a phone number and address. Notably, the address linked to their Data Universal Numbering System will be automatically shown by Apple.

Apple has implemented a compliance deadline of February 17, 2025, for developers to revise their trader status within App Store Connect. Any developers failing to provide their information by this cutoff will see their applications removed from the App Store within the EU market, as stated by the company.