Apple has provided detailed information on the functioning of direct payments on iOS following the resolution of its prolonged legal dispute with Epic Games. The tech giant will now impose a 27% commission on proceeds generated through these methods, according to the updated guidelines.
Developers are now required to apply for an ‘entitlement’ as outlined below, and they must continue to incorporate the option to make purchases through Apple’s own billing system. Direct payment links are to be presented as an alternative, not a substitution.
Apple will still enforce a 27% commission on any earnings from sales conducted through links to external payment systems, with a reduced commission of 12% for participants in the iOS firm’s Small Business Program.
These modifications are specific to the iOS and iPadOS App Stores in the United States. In other markets, developers are prohibited from using buttons, external links, or other calls to action that guide users to purchase methods outside those offered within the app.
Developers are required to request a StoreKit External Link Entitlement. Apple will then assess the app to ensure compliance with the entitlement’s terms and conditions, in addition to the standard App Store review guidelines and Developer Program License Agreement.
Once approved, developers can incorporate links in their games, allowing players to purchase in-game items directly from the studio, with the notification that this may be a more cost-effective option than buying in-game.
Developers must furnish a transaction report within 15 calendar days of each month’s end, even if no direct purchases were made during that period.
Apple has also outlined specific conditions for the link to external payment systems, including directing users to the developer’s website without redirects or intermediate links, opening a new window in the device’s default browser, and not mimicking Apple’s in-app purchase system.
CNBC has reported that Apple will introduce a pop-up screen warning users of the risks when they leave the Apple ecosystem by clicking on the link to external payment systems. Developers are not allowed to promote direct payments within the app’s App Store product page.
As determined in the 2021 trial, Apple can no longer prevent developers from guiding users to alternative payment options, such as direct purchases. Epic argued that such options would bypass the 30% fee Apple charges for transactions through iOS apps.
Apple delayed implementing these changes during its appeal, but CNBC reported that it updated its processes and developer guidelines on Tuesday after the US Supreme Court rejected appeals from both Apple and Epic.
