Apple on Thursday announced the launch of a new developer program, the Mini App Partner Program, that will reduce commission rates on in-app purchases for mini apps by 15%.
The iPhone maker defines mini apps as “self-contained” experiences built using web technologies like HTML5 and JavaScript and distributed within a larger native app. This technology has been supported in the App Store for nearly a decade, but this is the first time that mini-app transactions are offered reduced fees.
In 2017, Apple added rules to its App Review Guidelines that list specific requirements for mini-apps. Under Guideline 4.7, the company gives developers permission to run mini-apps, mini-games, streaming games, chatbots, plugins, and game emulators that provide software that is not in the main app’s binary. It also explains how to handle sensitive data and filter offensive material, just like native apps.
To qualify for the new Mini Apps program, Apple says the main app must be available on iOS or iPadOS, hosted on the App Store, and follow the Apple Developer Program License Agreement and existing app review guidelines, including Mini Apps.
However, the program also adds new requirements for apps to support certain Apple technologies, such as the Advanced Commerce API and the Declared Age Rating API, which allow apps to serve age-appropriate content. You must also use Apple’s in-app purchase system and send information about your in-app purchases to Apple if a refund is requested.
Apple is positioning the program as a way for developers hosting mini-apps and games to grow their business on the App Store. We also encourage developers to take advantage of Apple technology, including reliability and security tools, by offering the benefit of reduced fees. The additional savings could allow developers to reinvest in their own mini-app programs.
Additionally, it ensures that Apple maintains its ability to earn commissions from mini-applications as the market evolves to offer new experiences.
Currently, there are various native iOS apps that offer messengers such as LINE and WeChat, as well as mini-apps that offer mini-games, such as Discord. Recently, AI providers have begun to move into the mini-app space. Notably, ChatGPT recently released an app that runs within a chatbot, allowing users to leverage apps such as Booking.com, Expedia, Spotify, Figma, Coursera, Zillow, and Canva. Some theorize that if app engagement and transactions move within ChatGPT, the platform could eventually evolve to threaten the App Store’s business model.
Bloomberg recently reported that Apple and Tencent agreed to pay a 15% fee for WeChat mini-apps, but did not say the program would be opened to other developers.
Developers wishing to join Apple’s Mini App Partner Program can make a request and provide information about their host app, eligibility, and Mini Apps. You must also agree to the program’s terms and conditions. Once your app is ready, you need to submit it for review. (Apple already requires app developers to include a manifest that lets them see the software and metadata included in their app, as well as links to the mini-apps they provide.)
According to Apple, in-app purchases within Mini Apps are eligible for fee reductions for digital goods and services, including consumable, non-consumable, auto-renewing subscriptions, and non-renewing subscriptions.
