Apple Proposes Up to 15% Commission on External iOS Purchases

Apple has proposed charging developers commissions of up to 15% when users make purchases through external links inside iOS apps, outlining a new fee structure as its long-running legal battle with Epic Games continues.

In a filing in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, Apple proposed a 15% commission for standard apps. Developers participating in certain Apple programs would qualify for lower rates.

Apple proposes lower external payment fees.

Under the proposal, developers enrolled in Apple’s Small Business Program would pay a 5% commission. Apps participating in the Video Partner Program, News Partner Program, or Mini Apps Partner Program would be charged a 10% rate, and subscription renewals would also be charged 10%.

The proposed fees apply to transactions completed after users follow external purchase links in iOS apps, rather than to those made through Apple’s traditional in-app payment system.

Apple had previously imposed a 27% commission on purchases made through external links, along with restrictions governing how developers could direct users to alternative payment options. Those policies became part of an ongoing dispute over whether Apple complied with an earlier court order in its case with Epic Games.

Epic Games case continues to shape App Store rules

Apple sought to delay the lower-court proceedings while the U.S. Supreme Court considered a related request involving the contempt ruling. The Supreme Court rejected Apple’s request to pause the proceedings and required the company to submit its proposed commission structure.

Apple argues that it should be allowed to collect fees on purchases made through iOS apps because it invests in the technology, tools, and services that support the App Store and its software ecosystem.

The company also pointed to Google’s external payment structure for comparison. Apple said Google Play charges a 20% link-out rate for standard apps, 15% for apps in certain programs and 10% for subscription renewals, rates that Epic Games had agreed to.

The filing represents Apple’s proposed approach rather than a final court-approved commission structure. The legal proceedings will determine what restrictions and fees Apple can ultimately impose on developers directing iOS users to external purchasing options.