Apple has updated its App Store guidelines and developers can now connect alternative payment platforms within their apps. The new development is limited to the iOS and iPadOS App Stores in the United States and requires developers to apply for a special right to enable the option to link payments to external websites and platforms.
Purchasing model with Apple in-app link for external payments
There are some asterisks here, Apple will take a 27% commission on every payment made outside of the App Store (compared to the normal Apple App Store fee of 30%) and developers still have to offer the in-purchase system- Apple’s app in their app. Developers who are part of the App Store Small Business program are eligible for a 12% fee.
Apple has also shared specific guidelines on how external checkout screens and website links should look and behave as part of the StoreKit External Purchase Link API. Apple will also issue warning screens when apps attempt to redirect users to external payment platforms reminding users that it will not be responsible for purchases made on the web.
Apple’s “In-App System Cheat Sheet.”
App Store Review Guidelines, Section 3.1.1(a)
- Developers may request the right to provide a link in their app to a website that they own or are responsible for purchasing such items.
- In accordance with the Authorization Agreement, the link may inform users where and how to purchase such in-app purchase items and that such items may be available at a comparatively lower price.
- The right is limited to use only in the iOS App Store or iPadOS storefront in the United States.
- In all other storefronts, apps and their metadata cannot include buttons, external links, or other calls to action that direct customers to purchasing mechanisms other than in-app purchases.
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