Apple has taken a significant step in enforcing the European Union's Digital Services Act (DSA) by removing apps from the EU App Store that haven't complied with the new regulation. As of February 18, all apps without "trader status" have been removed, and won't be reinstated until their trader status is provided and verified by Apple. This move marks a significant shift in the way app developers operate in the EU market.

The DSA, which came into effect on February 17, 2025, requires app developers to disclose their address, phone number, and email information to consumers. This information is now displayed below other app details like age rating and supported languages, but above the link to the developer website. The regulation aims to provide consumers with a clear point of contact for app developers, making it easier to address complaints or inquiries.

The impact of this change is likely to be felt most by smaller and indie app developers who don't typically publicize their addresses or phone numbers for dealing with consumer complaints or inquiries. Many of these developers work from home and previously only listed an email address on their website for feedback and customer support. The new regulation requires them to disclose more personal information, which could be a concern for those who value their privacy.

According to the DSA, any app that makes money through the App Store can be considered a "trader," whether that revenue comes through paid downloads, in-app purchases, or even advertising. This means that even hobbyist apps that generate some revenue are covered by this guideline. Organizations publishing in the EU App Store must display their phone, email, and address associated with their D-U-N-S Number, while individual developers must include an address, phone, and email.

In response to the new regulation, some developers have found creative ways to protect their privacy while still complying with the law. For instance, some have registered addresses and phone numbers through third parties, such as coworking spots, virtual offices, or PO boxes, to give them some protection and privacy. Others have signed up for virtual phone numbers instead of giving out their private numbers for publication on the public App Store.

The enforcement of the DSA is likely to have a significant impact on the app development ecosystem in the EU. While the regulation aims to provide consumers with more transparency and accountability, it could also lead to a shift in the way developers operate in the region. Some may choose to register their businesses in other regions to avoid disclosing personal information, while others may need to adapt their business models to comply with the new regulation.

As the app development landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how developers respond to this new regulation. While Apple's enforcement of the DSA may seem drastic, it's a necessary step in ensuring that consumers have the protections they need in the digital marketplace. As the industry adapts to this change, it's likely that we'll see new innovations and solutions emerge to address the challenges posed by the DSA.