Apple quietly reduces App Store commission rates in China

Apple is lowering its App Store commission rate in China from 30% to 25% after discussions with Chinese regulators, the company said Thursday. Under the updated structure, the new 25% commission will apply to paid apps and in-app purchases, while auto-renewing in-app subscriptions after their first year will face a reduced 12% commission, down from 15%.

Apple said the changes will take effect on March 15, 2026, and developers will not need to agree to new terms for the updated rates to apply.

The move to cut commissions without a prolonged public fight highlights both the importance of China to Apple’s business and the company’s view of the App Store’s value in that market. In its first quarter, Apple reported strong iPhone sales in China, with revenue rising 16% year over year and helping the company post a record quarter.

Compared with the European Union, where Apple and regulators have spent years disputing changes to the App Store commission, Apple appears to have reduced its rates in China without a similar confrontation. In the United States, meanwhile, Apple won its legal battle with Fortnite maker Epic Games when a judge ruled that the iPhone maker was not a monopoly. However, developers did gain the ability, at least for now, to direct users to alternative payment methods. Because of that outcome, Apple has maintained the same commission rates in the U.S., while continuing to offer discounted rates through programs aimed at certain groups, such as small businesses.

The updated terms in China are reflected in the latest version of the Apple Developer Program License Agreement.

“We are committed to terms that remain fair and transparent to all developers, and to always offering competitive App Store rates to developers distributing apps in China that are no higher than overall rates in other markets,” the company said in its announcement.