Apple to Implement Mini Commission on Mini App Developers

Apple’s New Program for Mini App Developers

Apple is set to launch a new program aimed at mini app developers, offering a significant reduction in fees for in-app purchases. This initiative, announced by the tech giant on Thursday, will see participating mini app creators benefiting from a reduced commission rate of 15 percent. This is half of the up to 30 percent rate typically charged by Apple to other developers.

Mini apps, as described by Apple, are “self-contained experiences” created using HTML5 and JavaScript, designed to function within another app. This format has gained popularity in China, particularly with apps like WeChat, owned by Tencent, which offer integrated services such as ride-hailing, food delivery, and payments. Other platforms like Telegram, Discord, Snapchat, and TikTok have also dabbled in incorporating mini apps.

The announcement of Apple’s new program coincides with the company’s recent agreement with Tencent, allowing Apple to take a 15 percent commission on purchases made through WeChat’s mini apps. This move comes amidst ongoing antitrust scrutiny, with the Department of Justice accusing Apple of hindering the growth of super apps that provide a variety of services or mini apps on a single platform. The implementation of this program is seen as a strategic step to alleviate some of the antitrust pressure faced by Apple.

Apple has expressed that the new program aims to support “developers who host mini apps in expanding their businesses and enhancing the availability of mini apps on the App Store.”