BRUSSELS, Nov 12 (Reuters) - Lower developer fees

implemented by Apple ( AAPL ) to comply with European Union tech

regulations have not reduced prices for users, the iPhone maker

said on Wednesday, renewing its criticism of Europe's efforts to

rein in its market power.

Last year, in response to the bloc's Digital Markets Act,

Apple ( AAPL ) allowed software developers to distribute their apps to

users in the EU outside its App Store and opt out of its in-app

payment system, which charges commissions of up to 30%.

That reduced fees for developers to an average of 20%.

The U.S. tech giant, however, said a study it commissioned

from Analysis Group showed that app developers have not passed

on the cost savings to users.

"This study provides further evidence that the DMA is not

benefiting consumers in the form of lower prices. At the same

time, we know the regulation is creating new barriers for

innovators and startups while exposing consumers to new risks,"

an Apple ( AAPL ) spokesperson said.

The report, which covered more than 41 million transactions

for some 21,000 products, generating 403 million euros ($470

million) in sales for the period March to September 2024, said

that developers kept the same prices or increased them for nine

out of 10 products.

It said over 86% of the 20.1-million-euro reduction in

commission fees went to non-EU developers.

($1 = 0.8575 euros)