Apple’s Proposed 15% Commission on External App Store Purchases

Apple has submitted a proposal to charge a 15% commission on purchases made through external links within iOS apps, with discounts for developers enrolled in specific programs. The filing, submitted to the U.S. District Court of Northern California, outlines a tiered structure: 5% for small businesses, 10% for Video, News, and Mini Apps Partner Program participants, and 10% for subscription renewals. This comes after years of legal battles with Epic Games over App Store commission policies. Apple sought to delay the matter until the Supreme Court ruled on its contempt charges related to a 27% commission increase, but the court denied the request, forcing Apple to disclose its plan. The company argues that these fees are necessary to recoup investments in maintaining the App Store and compares its rates to Google Play’s structure. The move highlights ongoing tensions between tech giants and developers over platform control and revenue sharing.