As of May 2025, Apple has officially rolled out a major update to its App Store Review Guidelines for U.S. developers, enabling apps to include links or buttons that direct users to external payment platforms—with zero commission taken by Apple. This shift comes after years of legal battles (most notably Epic v. Apple) and marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of the iOS ecosystem.

Why This Matters

• No More 30% Commission: Developers can now bypass Apple’s in‑app purchase engine entirely for digital goods and services sold through approved external links.

• Reader Apps Gain Freedom: E‑book, music, and video apps (e.g., Kindle, Spotify, Netflix) can embed direct “Sign Up” or “Manage Subscription” links in their iOS apps.

• Fortnite’s Return: Epic Games has confirmed Fortnite will reappear on the U.S. App Store next week, leveraging its own payment gateway and sidestepping Apple’s fees.

Background: The Epic v. Apple Saga

1. September 2021 Injunction
   Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers struck down Apple’s “anti‑steering” rules under California’s Unfair Competition Law, prohibiting Apple from blocking developers from informing users about external payment options.

2. January 2024 Supreme Court Decision
   The U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear Apple’s appeal, cementing the injunction and pressuring Apple to allow external payment links.

3. January 2024 Interim Policy
   Apple introduced a link entitlement system allowing external links—subject to a 27 percent fee (12 percent for small developers)—still retaining significant control over external transactions.

4. April 30, 2025 Contempt Ruling
   Judge Rogers found Apple in contempt for continuing to charge fees on external payments and ordered Apple to cease all commissions on those transactions.

What’s New in the App Store Guidelines

Apple has revised two key sections for U.S. storefront apps:

Section 3.1.1(a): Link to Other Purchase Methods

• Freedom to Link: Apps may include buttons or external links directing users to purchase digital content or services on the developer’s website.

• No Entitlement Required: The old “entitlement” application process has been scrapped for U.S. apps.

Section 3.1.3(a): Reader Apps

• Account Creation & Management: Reader apps can now provide links for users to sign up or manage subscriptions externally—no prior Apple approval needed.

• Zero Commissions: Apple will not take any cut from transactions completed via these external links.

Developer Requirements & Best Practices

1. Account Holder Status:
   Ensure your Apple Developer Program account is in the “Account Holder” role.

2. Registration of Details:
   In your Apple Developer portal, register your app’s bundle ID, website domain, and selected payment provider.

3. App Review Compliance:
   While external links no longer require special entitlement, your purchase flow will still undergo Apple’s standard App Review for compliance, clarity, and security.

Implications for Businesses & Users

• Greater Flexibility: Integrate payment platforms such as Stripe, PayPal, or proprietary gateways, tailoring checkout experiences to your business needs.

• Competitive Pricing: Passing savings to end users by avoiding Apple’s commission may drive down subscription costs.

• Enhanced User Trust: Direct transactions on your own site can build stronger brand relationships and data ownership.

Pro Tip: Clearly label external payment flows (“Secure Checkout on YourSite.com”) to maintain user confidence and streamline the App Review process.

What’s Next

• Apple’s Appeal: Apple has signaled it will comply with the contempt order while continuing to appeal in higher courts.

• Global Rollout?: These changes currently apply only to the U.S. App Store. Developers in other regions (e.g., EU, Asia) must still follow existing in‑app purchase rules unless similar legal mandates arise.

• Action Steps for Developers:

  1. Review the updated Sections 3.1.1 and 3.1.3 in the App Store Review Guidelines

  2. Update app builds to include external payment links.

  3. Submit to App Review with clear documentation of your external payment flow.

By allowing third‑party payment links without commission, Apple has taken a monumental step toward an open iOS ecosystem. Developers—especially those with high-volume digital sales—should act swiftly to implement these changes, reduce fees, and enhance user choice.