Apple plans to increase App Store prices

Prices of apps on Apple's App Store are expected to increase by 25 per cent to reflect the depreciation of the pound since the EU referendum last June. The price of songs, videos and books is expected to follow with a similar rise soon.

The new prices now make the pound equal to the dollar; so an app that costs 99 cents in the US, and currently costs 79p in the UK, will soon cost 99p.

Apple apparently announced the increased prices in an email to app developers on Tuesday, saying “when foreign exchange rates or taxation changes, we sometimes need to update prices on the App Store”.

The changes will be made over the next week, the email says, giving iPhone, iPad and Mac owners until the 24th January to buy lower-cost apps before then.

MORE: Apple AirPods review

Commenting on the increase, Apple said: “Price tiers on the App Store are set internationally on the basis of several factors, including currency exchange rates, business practices, taxes and the cost of doing business. These factors vary from region to region and over time.”

The predicted changes to the hi-fi industry following Brexit are that imported AV products will cost more over time, according to Clarity Alliance.

Naim Audio also warned that Brexit could possibly damage the UK's competitiveness in comparison to the EU if it gets a favourable trading status (or certification commonality).

However, the fall in the pound could boost exports of audio products in the UK.

MORE: What does Brexit mean for the hi-fi industry?

Adam was a staff writer for What Hi-Fi?, reviewing consumer gadgets for online and print publication, as well as researching and producing features and advice pieces on new technology in the hi-fi industry. He has since worked for PC Mag as a contributing editor and is now a science and technology reporter for The Independent.

Latest in Smartphones & Tablets
The Google Pixel 9a being held horizontally at waist-height so only the back is visible.
The Google Pixel 9a launches at £100 less than the iPhone 16e with a better screen
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra smartphone
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
a series of ipad airs on a blue background
There's already a new Apple iPad Air – but it's not got a key Pro feature we want
a series of ipad airs on a blue background
iPad Air M3 vs iPad Pro M4: what's the difference?
iPhone 16 Plus smartphone
Got an old iPhone? We'll help you decide on how to upgrade
iPhone 16e in black and white on a white background
iPhone 16e vs Sony Xperia 10 VI: what are the differences?
Latest in News
Sony Bravia Projector 8 home cinema projector
Terrible news: Sony is about to stop selling projectors in Europe, including the UK
Audiolab 6000A MkII amplifier in silver
Audiolab upgrades its five-star 6000A amplifier with a new DAC chip, enhanced circuitry and HDMI ARC
Qobuz
Qobuz reveals average payout per stream – and claims it is higher than rivals
Sonos Beam Gen 2
Quick! This five-star Sonos Dolby Atmos soundbar has dropped close to its lowest price
The Google Pixel 9a being held horizontally at waist-height so only the back is visible.
The Google Pixel 9a launches at £100 less than the iPhone 16e with a better screen
A woman flicking through stacks of vinyl records in a Rough Trade shop.
Vinyl records and music streaming both hit landmark highs – but the one growing faster in revenue may surprise you