Earlier today, reporting emerged of Apple and WeChat owner Tencent coming to an agreement that will earn Apple a 15% commission on revenue from mini apps.
Now, it seems that this is actually tied to a newly announced Mini Apps Partner Program wherein Apple offers that reduced 15% commission to all developers.
Tencent, like all developers, will need first need to apply to take part in the program.
Here’s how it all works.
Mini Apps Partner Program available now for developers
Apple has supported mini apps and games on the App Store since 2017, but today the company has announced a new program through which those offerings can earn additional revenue for developers.
From the Apple Developer website:
Today, we’re introducing the Mini Apps Partner Program, which expands on the App Store’s ongoing support for apps that offer mini apps. Mini apps are self-contained experiences that are built using web technologies like HTML5 and JavaScript. This program is designed to help developers who host mini apps grow their business and further the availability of mini apps on the App Store — all while providing a great customer experience. Participating developers may benefit from a reduced commission rate of 15% on the sales of qualifying In-App Purchases. To be eligible for this reduced commission rate, participating apps must support certain App Store technologies, including the Declared Age Range API and the Advanced Commerce API in order to help provide a safe and seamless experience for customers of all ages.
Developers are not automatically opted into the program. Rather, they can ask for admission by completing a request form on this page.
That page also outlines the full terms and conditions of eligibility for the program, along with a helpful Q&A section.
... continue reading