A Microsoft executive called Apple's compliance with the DMA's new EU policy "a step in the wrong direction." The Digital Markets Act will take effect in March this year. Apple has released a plan on how to comply with EU law, which has been condemned by many parties. Apple will allow apps to be installed from outside sources at a lower commission, but those apps will be charged a core technology fee.
Xbox president Sarah Bond has also joined in condemning Apple's proposed App Store changes. She said it was "a step in the wrong direction" and hoped "they would listen to the feedback."
These reviews appear even though Microsoft also relies on a 30% commission, but the difference is that Microsoft only charges for games, otherwise it would let app developers keep 100% of the revenue from sales through the Microsoft Store.
Microsoft isn't the only company where executives have voiced objections to Apple's proposed changes, though their objections have been less strident. Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney called the plan "hot garbage," while Spotify CEO Daniel Ek called it a "ripoff."
Specifically, Apple will allow developers to offer third-party app stores in the EU, but they must be individually approved and use a manual review process. The commission for apps sold outside the app store will be reduced to 17%, but these apps will also be subject to a core technology fee, which will be charged 0.50 euros per first install of an app after 1 million installs.
The EU will announce whether Apple's proposals are sufficient to meet the DMA's requirements after a review begins on March 7. If Apple does not fully comply with EU measures, it will be the target of "strong action".