Apple becomes a debt collector with its new developer agreement

TechCrunchThursday, December 18, 2025 at 11:56:19 PM
  • Apple has announced a new developer agreement that allows the company to collect any outstanding payments owed by developers at any time, effectively positioning itself as a debt collector. This move has raised concerns among developers regarding financial autonomy and the implications of such a policy.
  • This development is significant for Apple as it expands its control over developer relationships and revenue streams, potentially increasing its income from app developers while also raising questions about fairness and transparency in its business practices.
  • The broader implications of this policy reflect ongoing tensions in the tech industry regarding corporate power, regulatory scrutiny, and the balance between innovation and user rights, especially as governments like India impose additional requirements on tech companies to enhance security and protect user data.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

Was this article worth reading? Share it

Recommended apps based on your readingExplore all apps
Continue Readings
ChatGPT’s mobile app hits new milestone of $3B in consumer spending
PositiveArtificial Intelligence
ChatGPT has achieved a significant milestone, reaching $3 billion in lifetime mobile consumer spending within just 31 months, outpacing other popular apps like TikTok and major streaming services. This rapid financial growth highlights the app's increasing adoption and user engagement in the mobile market.
These 21-year-old dropouts raised $2M to build Givefront, a fintech for nonprofits
PositiveArtificial Intelligence
Two 21-year-old dropouts have successfully raised $2 million to establish Givefront, a fintech company tailored specifically for nonprofits, including food banks, churches, and homeowner associations. This initiative is backed by Y Combinator, highlighting the growing interest in innovative financial solutions for the nonprofit sector.
More ads are coming to App Store search results, but Apple promises they will be "relevant"
NeutralArtificial Intelligence
Apple has announced that it will increase the number of ads displayed in App Store search results starting next year, aiming to enhance opportunities for advertisers while ensuring that ads remain relevant to user searches. The company has committed to not displaying irrelevant ads, regardless of the advertisers' bids.
Luma releases a new AI model that lets users generate a video from a start and end frame
PositiveArtificial Intelligence
Luma AI has launched a new AI model that enables users to generate videos by specifying a start and end frame, available through its Dream Machine platform. This innovative tool is expected to enhance user creativity and streamline video production processes.
Vibe-coding startup Lovable raises $330M at a $6.6B valuation
PositiveArtificial Intelligence
Lovable, a vibe-coding startup, has successfully raised $330 million in funding, leading to a valuation of $6.6 billion, which marks a significant increase from its previous valuation just five months ago. This rapid growth underscores the company's strong market position and investor confidence in its innovative approach to AI coding solutions.
Apple Engineers Are Inspecting Bacon Packaging to Help Level Up US Manufacturers
PositiveArtificial Intelligence
Apple engineers are actively inspecting bacon packaging as part of the new Apple Manufacturing Academy, which aims to enhance the capabilities of U.S. manufacturers. Initial participants have reported that the company's hands-on support and transparency are positively impacting their operations and profitability.
Apple and Amazon face £900 million UK lawsuit over alleged price-fixing
NegativeArtificial Intelligence
Apple and Amazon are facing a £900 million lawsuit in the UK, led by Justin Le Patourel through JLP A&A Class Representative Limited, over allegations of price-fixing. The claim is supported by competition litigation firm Hausfeld & Co LLP, highlighting significant concerns regarding pricing practices in the tech industry.
US Government Seeks Tech Talent
PositiveArtificial Intelligence
The US Government has launched the Tech Force initiative aimed at attracting top technology talent, particularly in artificial intelligence, to collaborate with major tech companies like Apple, Microsoft, and OpenAI. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance the nation's technological capabilities and innovation landscape.

Ready to build your own newsroom?

Subscribe to unlock a personalised feed, podcasts, newsletters, and notifications tailored to the topics you actually care about