Apple Seeks Up to 15% Commission on External iOS App Purchases

Introduction to the Proposal

Apple is asking a federal judge to allow it to charge commissions of up to 15% on purchases made through external links in iOS apps.

The proposal concerns purchases made through external links, not all app purchases. Apple currently takes a commission on in-app purchases made through the App Store, but the rate and scope of this commission are separate from the proposed external link commission.

The Proposal’s Implications

If approved, the proposal would apply to purchases made through external links in iOS apps. The commission rate would be up to 15%.

Developers and consumers are waiting to see how the proposal will be received. The outcome may have implications for the app ecosystem.

The Current State

Apple’s proposal is currently before a federal judge. The company is seeking permission to charge commissions of up to 15% on external link purchases.

Next Steps

The proposal’s progress through the courts will be closely watched. The outcome may impact the app ecosystem, but the source material does not provide evidence of the potential revenue impact or the broader implications for the industry.

Industry Context

The app ecosystem is a significant market, with millions of apps available for download. The proposed commission could have a substantial impact on developers who rely on external links for purchases.

Apple’s proposal is part of a broader trend of companies seeking to monetize their platforms. Other companies, such as Google, have also implemented commissions on purchases made through their platforms.

The app ecosystem is highly competitive, with many companies vying for market share. The proposed commission could give Apple a significant advantage in this market, as it would allow the company to collect revenue from purchases made outside of the App Store.

History of App Store Commissions

Apple has a history of charging commissions on in-app purchases. The company has faced criticism and lawsuits over its App Store policies, including its commission rates.

The proposed external link commission is a new development, but it is part of a long-standing debate over App Store policies. The outcome of the proposal will be closely watched by developers, consumers, and other stakeholders.

Technical Mechanics

The proposed commission would apply to purchases made through external links in iOS apps. This means that developers would need to implement a system to track and report these purchases to Apple.

The technical mechanics of the proposal are complex, and developers may face challenges in implementing the required systems. The cost and complexity of implementation could be a significant factor in the outcome of the proposal.

Downstream Implications

If approved, the proposal could have significant implications for the app ecosystem. Developers may need to adjust their business models to account for the proposed commission.

Consumers may also be affected, as the proposed commission could lead to higher prices for apps and in-app purchases. The outcome of the proposal will depend on a variety of factors, including the court’s decision and the response of developers and consumers.

The proposed commission could also have implications for the wider tech industry. Other companies may be watching the outcome of the proposal to see if they can implement similar commissions on their own platforms.

Updates

• 2026-08-29 — WhatsApp rolls out new chat themes on iOS, including animated wallpapers (source)