Apple requiring developers to show address, phone number, and email address on App Store in EU

Apple is reminding developers who distribute apps in the European Union to submit their trader status, in compliance with the Digital Services Act (DSA). This new regulation will require the App Store to display the address, phone number, and email address of each developer on their ‌App Store‌ page.

Under the DSA, Apple must verify and publicly display the contact information of all developers classified as “traders” who offer apps on the ‌App Store‌ within the European Union. This includes any developer who earns revenue through the App Store, either via upfront purchase costs or in-app purchases, regardless of the developer’s size.

The requirement has sparked concern among developers, particularly independent creators and small businesses, who may not have a separate business address or phone number and are reluctant to share personal contact details publicly. However, Apple has made it clear that this is a mandatory regulation, and the company has no flexibility in its implementation.

Starting October 16, 2024, developers will need to submit their trader status information before they can update their apps. By February 17, 2025, any apps that lack verified trader status will be removed from the ‌App Store‌ in the EU until the required information is provided and confirmed.

Since the display of trader status is a legal requirement under the DSA in the European Union, Apple’s hands are tied in enforcing this rule. Developer contact details will be visible on the ‌App Store‌ product page for any app available in the EU’s 27 member countries.