On Wednesday, Apple announced it will change App Store policies to halve the commission it takes from in-app payments for smaller developers.
Apple CEO Tim Cook in a press statement said, “We’re launching this program to help small business owners write the next chapter of creativity and prosperity on the Apple Store, and to build the kind of quality apps our customers love.”
The cut is scheduled to take effect by January 1. The commission created a rough patch between Apple and developers over its rules on in-app purchases. It attracted antitrust scrutiny in the US and Europe.
The developers require to use Apple’s payment system for in-app purchases, such as a Spotify Premium subscription. Apple used to take a share of 30% on every transaction. Major developers including Spotify, Tinder, and Epic Games have fought with Apple over its in-app payments rules.
Apple has been accused of strict control over apps that can function on IOS devices. It argued, Apple then decides to launch competing products, such as its music-streaming service, Apple Music.
In September, developers formed a group called the coalition of App Fairness to try to force Apple to get rid of the charge.
