Apple was announced A new developer program, the Mini Apps Partner Program, is launching on Thursday, which will offer a reduced 15% commission rate on in-app purchases for mini apps.
The iPhone maker defines a mini-app as a “stand-alone” experience created using web technologies like HTML5 and JavaScript, which are distributed within a larger, native app. The technology has been supported in the App Store for nearly a decade, but this is the first time a reduced commission has been offered for mini-app transactions.
Apple in 2017 added a rule to it Application control instructionswhich lists the specific requirements for mini-apps. In Directive 4.7, the company gives developers permission to run mini-apps, mini-games, streaming games, chatbots, plugins, and game emulators that offer software not found in the main application binary. It also describes how they process sensitive data or filter objectionable material, similar to native apps.
To qualify for the new Mini App program, Apple says the main app must be available on iOS or iPadOS and hosted on the App Store, and must follow Apple Developer Program License Agreement and the existing one Application control instructionsincluding those for mini apps.
However, the program also adds new requirements for apps that support specific Apple technologies, including Advanced Commerce API and Declared Age Rating APIwhich ensures that apps offer age-appropriate content. They must also use Apple’s in-app purchases system and sending information about a user’s in-app purchase; to Apple when refunds are requested.
Apple is positioning the program as a way for developers who host mini-apps and games to grow their business on the App Store. It also incentivizes developers to leverage Apple technologies, including trust and security tools, by offering the benefit of reduced commission. This additional savings could allow developers to reinvest in their own mini-app program.
It also ensures that Apple maintains its ability to extract revenue from mini-apps, even as the market evolves to offer new experiences.
Today, there are a variety of native iOS apps that offer mini-apps, including messengers like LINE or WeChat, or those that offer mini-games like Discordfor example. More recently, AI providers have begun to move into the mini-app space. Specifically, ChatGPT recently released apps that run inside its chatbot, allowing users to interact with apps like Booking.com, Expedia, Spotify, Figma, Coursera, Zillow, and Canva. Some have speculated that this platform could eventually evolves to threaten the App Store business model if app engagement and transactions moved to ChatGPT;
Bloomberg recently reported Apple and Tencent agreed to a 15% commission. in mini-apps on WeChat, but not that the program will be open to other developers.
Developers who want to participate in Apple’s Mini Apps Partner Program can submit a request and then provide information about their host application, eligibility, and mini app. They must also agree to the terms and conditions of the program. When their application is ready, they should submit it review. (Apple already requires app developers to include a manifest that allows Apple to control the software and metadata included in the app, as well as the links to the mini-apps it offers.)
In-app purchases within mini-apps qualify for a reduced commission if they are for digital goods and services, including consumable, non-consumable, auto-renew and non-renewable subscriptions, Apple says.
