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Apple Lowers App Store Commissions for Mini Apps

  • tech360.tv
  • 4 hours ago
  • 2 min read

Apple on Thursday said it would lower commissions for mini apps on iPhones and other devices. The company's App Store typically charges up to 30% on digital purchases.

Three smartphones display unique screens: futuristic widgets, a person in white posing against a red wall, and vibrant abstract flowers.
Credit: APPLE

Under the program announced Thursday, the commission rate will decrease to 15% for mini app developers. This applies if developers adopt specific Apple technologies, including its method for declaring a user's age range.


Mini apps are often game titles or other applications offered within a larger host application. They are prevalent in China, where popular applications such as Tencent Holdings and Alipay host scores of game titles or other services inside their primary application.


The model is also adopted by U.S. firms, with ChatGPT creator OpenAI last month saying it will offer mini apps within its flagship chatbot app. According to Apple's App Store rules, developers of mini apps pay commissions for digital sales directly to the company.


The specific cut taken by the host app is a matter between the host app and the mini app developer. Apple has linked the lower commission rates to its age declaration technology amid a dispute.


Credit: APPLE
Credit: APPLE

The iPhone maker is in disagreement with various states and technology rivals, including Meta Platforms, concerning age verification on digital platforms. Several U.S. states are pursuing laws mandating age verification for app users.


Meta Platforms stated that age verification should occur at the level of app marketplaces operated by Alphabet’s Google and Apple. Apple has argued these laws would infringe on the privacy of adult users.


The company has proposed an alternative allowing app developers to accept a user-declared age range. This alternative would require adult approval for younger users.

  • Apple is reducing App Store commissions for mini apps from up to 30% to 15%.

  • Developers must adopt Apple’s age declaration technology to qualify for the lower rate.

  • Mini apps are common in China and are being adopted by U.S. firms like OpenAI.


Source: REUTERS

 
 
 

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