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Apple Introduces Mini Apps Partner Program with Reduced Commission Rate
Apple has announced the launch of a new developer program, the Mini Apps Partner Program, which offers a reduced commission rate of 15% on in-app purchases for mini applications. This move is expected to benefit developers who create mini apps, which are self-contained experiences built using web technologies like HTML5 and JavaScript, distributed within larger native apps.
The iPhone maker has supported mini apps on the App Store for nearly a decade, but this is the first time it has offered a reduced commission on mini app transactions. To qualify for the program, the main app must be available on iOS or iPadOS, hosted on the App Store, and follow the Apple Developer Program License Agreement and App Review Guidelines, including those for mini apps.
Program Requirements and Benefits
The Mini Apps Partner Program requires developers to support specific Apple technologies, including the Advanced Commerce API and Declared Age Rating API, which ensures apps offer age-appropriate content. They must also use Apple’s in-app purchase system and send information about a user’s in-app purchase to Apple when refunds are requested. By joining the program, developers can benefit from a reduced commission rate, which can help them grow their business on the App Store.
Apple positions the program as a way for developers to leverage its technologies, including trust and safety tools, while offering the benefit of a reduced commission. This move is seen as a way for Apple to retain its ability to extract a commission from mini applications, even as the market evolves to offer new experiences.
Market Implications and Competition
The introduction of the Mini Apps Partner Program comes as the market for mini apps is evolving, with various native iOS apps offering mini apps, such as messengers like LINE or WeChat, or those that offer mini games, like Discord. Recently, AI providers like ChatGPT have begun moving into the mini app space, launching apps that run inside its chatbot, allowing users to engage with apps like Booking.com, Expedia, and Spotify.
Some have theorized that this platform could eventually threaten the App Store’s business model if app engagement and transactions moved inside ChatGPT. Bloomberg recently reported that Apple and Tencent agreed to a 15% commission on mini apps in WeChat, but not that the program would be open to other developers.
Joining the Program and Eligibility
Developers who want to join Apple’s Mini Apps Partner Program can make a request, provide information about their host app, eligibility, and mini app, and agree to the program’s terms and conditions. When their app is ready, they must submit it for review. In-app purchases inside mini apps qualify for the reduced commission if they are for digital goods and services, including consumable, non-consumable, auto-renewable subscriptions, and non-renewing subscriptions.
For more information on the Mini Apps Partner Program, developers can visit Apple’s developer website. The introduction of this program is seen as a significant move by Apple to support developers and evolve the App Store ecosystem. Here
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