Major Publishers Join 'Coalition for App Fairness' Advocating for Apple App Store Reform

Digital Content Next, a trade association that represents many major publishers, has joined the 'Coalition for App Fairness', a group advocating for Apple App Store reforms. DCN includes the AP, BBC, Bloomberg, CNBC, Disney, ESPN, FOX, The New York Times, NPR, USA Today, and many others.

Apple’s terms within the App Store ecosystem have created serious challenges for many of DCN’s members. Together, the members reach an audience of over 223 million unique visitors, 100 percent reach of the U.S. online population, and provide access to content through a subscription-based model. Apple severely impacts these publishers and their readers by becoming an intermediary, not only financially through the app tax, but also by creating conditions that they are forced to impose on their customers, such as requiring the use of Apple’s in-app payment system.

“DCN is pleased to join the Coalition for App Fairness working to establish a fair and competitive digital landscape. The premium publisher members of DCN enjoy trusted, direct relationships with consumers, who don’t expect intermediaries to impose arbitrary fees and rules which limit their ability to consume the news and entertainment they love,” said Digital Content Next CEO Jason Kint.


“Having DCN join the Coalition for App Fairness is a landmark moment for our campaign, and their insight into core issues with the App Store that top outlets face will only make our voice stronger. We’re excited to work with them to advocate for App Store policies that are fair, hold Apple accountable, and give consumers freedom of choice,” said Sarah Maxwell, spokeswoman for the Coalition for App Fairness.

You can get more information about CAF’s advocacy efforts, the App Store Principles, or how to become a member at appfairness.org.