Apple is changing the pricing structure in the App Store, allowing developers to use a wider range of amounts to pay for apps. The change may be dictated by growing criticism of the company’s financial policy towards developers.

Prices can now start as low as 29 cents – up from the previous minimum of 49 cents for subscriptions and 99 cents for apps. The top one will come raised to $10,000 – it used to be $999.99. Developers will also get new options for setting prices in different countries and currencies.

The move is a major change for the App Store, which Apple launched in 2008 with a focus on simplicity. The platform has come under fire in recent years, with developers and regulators complaining that the company’s financial rules are too strict. Apple’s commission of 30% of the cost of applications also caused outrage, including from Elon Musk.

Last year, Apple settled a class-action lawsuit for $100 million from many US-based developers – pricing diversity was part of the deal. The company also made changes to the search in the App Store and made it easier for developers to appeal application rejections.

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Future US legislation could spur further changes, forcing Apple to allow apps to be downloaded or installed on the company’s devices without using the App Store. New options and tools can help keep the branded store attractive to developers, even if they have other options. Apple earned more than $78 billion last fiscal year from providing services, including placing programs in the App Store.

“The App Store commerce and payments system offers developers an ever-expanding set of opportunities and tools to grow their business, from simple payment and transparent invoicing for users to robust marketing tools, tax and anti-fraud services, and return management” , the company said in a statement.

A total of 700 new pricing tiers have been introduced for apps, though the top 100 tiers require Apple’s approval. The new structure is effective immediately for auto-renewing subscriptions and will be extended to standard apps and in-app purchases next spring. The company also adds price rounding, so an app can cost $1 or $10 instead of $0.99 or $9.99. Apple will also allow developers to keep prices constant in the currency of their choice, even if rates fluctuate.

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Source: Bloomberg