Now it looks like Apple has already started to accept developers into the program, according to some tweets by developers who have received their confirmation emails. However, Apple does warn developers not to abuse the system, such as splitting into multiple companies to give the illusion that they are earning under $1 million.
According to Apple, “If you initiate an app transfer after December 31, 2020, or accept a transfer of an app that was initiated after December 31, 2020, you will no longer be eligible to participate in the program.” The timing of the program’s launch is interesting, with some speculating that it could be in response to the criticism the company has been facing over its cut from app and in-app sales.
However, regardless of the company’s motivations, it seems that for the most part, many developers are quite happy with these changes. Whether or not it could help Apple in their legal proceedings like those against Epic remains to be seen.