Thousands of apps deleted: What's behind Apple's spring cleaning

Apple has made a rigorous cleanup in response to new EU regulations: around 135,000 apps have disappeared from the European App Store since February 17. The background to this is the European Union's Digital Services Act (DSA), which places stricter requirements on app providers. Which providers are particularly affected and what they can do to be included in the App Store again.

The DSA requires app providers who earn money with their applications to disclose specific contact information. Previously, a simple email address was often sufficient, but in the future a telephone number and, for individuals, a postal address will also be required. This is intended to increase transparency and security for users.

Apple had already warned app developers in mid-January 2025: Anyone who did not update their "trader" status in accordance with the DSA risked being removed from the store. With the deadline of February 17, Apple has now made good on this threat. According to the app analysis company Appfigures, almost 135,000 apps are affected, as the industry portal "Techcrunch" reports .

What affected developers can do

Small and independent developers in particular seem to be wary of the bureaucratic effort. Many do not provide their full contact details - either out of data protection concerns or because of the additional administrative work involved. Apple emphasizes that the regulation applies regardless of whether developers are subject to sales tax or how they generate revenue. Exceptions only exist for hobby developers who do not have commercial intentions.

To bring their apps back into the store, developers must update their status and submit the required contact information via App Store Connect. They must also confirm that the products or services offered comply with EU requirements. Apple then checks the data and re-enables the application. The company has not provided any information on how long this will take.

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