Apple Cuts In-App Commission Rate for Mini Apps to 15%

Apple announced on Thursday the launch of a new developer program, the Mini Apps Partner Program, which will offer a reduced commission rate of 15% on in-app purchases for the mini applications. The iPhone maker defines a mini app as a self-contained experience built using web technologies like HTML5 and JavaScript, which are distributed within a larger, native app. The technology has been supported on the App Store for nearly a decade, but this is the first time it's offered a reduced commission on mini app transactions. According to Apple, the main app must be available on iOS or iPadOS and hosted on the App Store to qualify for the new Mini App program. Developers must also follow the Apple Developer Program License Agreement and the existing App Review Guidelines, including guideline 4.7, which lists the specific requirements for mini apps. This guideline gives developers permission to run mini apps, mini games, streaming games, chatbots, plug-ins, and game emulators that offer software not in the main app's binary. "We're excited to introduce the Mini Apps Partner Program, which will enable developers to create and distribute mini apps with a reduced commission rate," said an Apple spokesperson. "This program will help developers to create more engaging and interactive experiences for our users, while also providing them with more flexibility and control over their apps." The Mini Apps Partner Program is a significant development for the app development community, as it provides developers with a new way to monetize their mini apps. According to a report by TechCrunch, the reduced commission rate of 15% is a significant reduction from the standard 30% commission rate charged by Apple for in-app purchases. The technology behind mini apps has been supported on the App Store for nearly a decade, but this is the first time Apple has offered a reduced commission on mini app transactions. In 2017, Apple added a rule to its App Review Guidelines, which lists the specific requirements for mini apps. This guideline gives developers permission to run mini apps, mini games, streaming games, chatbots, plug-ins, and game emulators that offer software not in the main app's binary. The Mini Apps Partner Program is expected to have a significant impact on the app development community, as it provides developers with a new way to monetize their mini apps. Developers will be able to create more engaging and interactive experiences for users, while also providing them with more flexibility and control over their apps. As of now, the Mini Apps Partner Program is available to developers, and they can apply for the program through the Apple Developer website. The program is expected to be rolled out in the coming weeks, and developers can expect to see the reduced commission rate of 15% on in-app purchases for their mini apps. In a statement, an Apple spokesperson said, "We're committed to providing developers with the tools and resources they need to create innovative and engaging experiences for our users. The Mini Apps Partner Program is just one example of our commitment to supporting the app development community."