Apple will modify its App Tracking Transparency (ATT) framework for iPhones and iPads following a multi-year investigation by Germany’s Federal Cartel Office. The regulator determined Apple’s framework gave its own applications unfair advantages over third-party developers.
Apple will implement neutral consent pop-ups and grant developers more flexibility in seeking user data tracking permissions. These changes will take effect within four months across most European Union countries.
A trustee will monitor Apple’s compliance for seven years. This settlement follows previous regulatory fines against Apple in France and Italy regarding the same tracking framework.