In a significant shift that could reshape how app developers handle payments, Apple has updated its App Store guidelines in the United States, allowing developers to offer external payment options without paying Apple’s usual commission. This decision comes after a US court order that found Apple was violating an earlier ruling in the Epic Games lawsuit.
Until now, developers had to use Apple’s in-app purchase system, giving the tech giant up to 30% commission on all transactions. Even when Apple began allowing external links, it still collected a 27% fee — a move criticized by developers and regulators alike.
As per the revised guidelines:
- Apps on the US App Store can now use external buttons, links, or prompts to redirect users to other payment platforms.
- Developers no longer need special permission from Apple to add these external links in their apps.
- Restrictions on encouraging users to use third-party payment options have been removed only for apps available on the US storefront.
This decision follows a court order by Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers, who ruled that Apple was not complying with her 2021 decision in the Epic Games vs. Apple case. Back then, the court had mandated that Apple allow developers to inform users of alternative payment methods.
Judge Rogers also took issue with Apple’s so-called “scare screens” warning messages shown to users when they attempted to make payments outside of the App Store — calling them a way to discourage external transactions.
What This Means for Developers
Although these changes currently apply only to apps listed in the United States, they set a strong precedent for markets like India, where regulators are increasingly scrutinising app store monopolies. Companies like Spotify have already submitted app updates to enable external payments in the US.
Epic Games, meanwhile, has announced the return of Fortnite to iOS, something long awaited by fans. The company’s CEO, Tim Sweeney, said they would drop all legal battles if Apple extends the no-commission policy globally — though Apple hasn’t committed to that yet.
Still Waiting for Its Turn
With India’s growing digital ecosystem and over 750 million smartphone users, developers here are also demanding more freedom and fairness in app store policies. Apple’s latest update may fuel similar legal and regulatory challenges in India, especially as the Competition Commission of India (CCI) has already been taking steps against monopolistic practices in the tech space.
