NewsBite analysis · Business, Gaming, Regulation · Acquisition, Lawsuit, Personnel Change
MacRumors
Apple Wants to Charge Developers Up to 15 Percent for Linking Outside the App Store
Apple has outlined a court-mandated fee structure for developers who link to outside purchase options, suggesting rates of 5% to 15% based on different program participation. The proposal comes in response to legal disputes regarding its App Store policies, especially following the Epic Games lawsuit, and aims to ensure Apple receives fair compensation for its platform. The district court will review Apple's proposal amid ongoing legal scrutiny, with implications for both developers and Apple's long-term strategy in monetizing app revenues.
MonitorConfidence: HighImmediate horizon
Published 13 Aug 2026, 22:45 UTC3 min read
Visit original article ↗Lead image — MacRumors
Summary
TL;DR
- Apple proposes a commission of 15% for standard apps linking to outside purchases.
- Small Business Program participants may pay only 5% under the new structure.
- Proposed fees are designed after analysis and are lower than those in the Epic v. Google case.
- Legal disputes have forced Apple to adapt its App Store policies since the 2021 Epic Games ruling.
- The U.S. district court will evaluate and set the final fee structure based on Apple's proposal.
Interesting facts
- Apple has been under legal pressure to modify its App Store policies since 2021.
- Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers ruled that a zero commission would not reflect the value Apple provides.