On Thursday, Apple introduced the Advanced Commerce API, a new tool designed to expand the range of in-app purchase formats, including subscriptions and content add-ons. Despite these new capabilities, Apple confirmed that its commission structure remains unchanged.
“The App Store handles billions of transactions annually, supporting developers in growing their businesses and delivering a top-tier customer experience. To help developers adapt to evolving business models—such as extensive content libraries, creator-driven experiences, and subscriptions with optional enhancements—we’re launching the Advanced Commerce API,” Apple stated in the announcement.
In a supporting document, Apple outlined the program’s eligibility criteria and potential use cases across three main categories. The first category targets apps offering large libraries of frequently updated, one-time purchases, like audiobooks or educational courses. The second focuses on apps featuring creator-led content that users can access via one-time payments or recurring subscriptions. The third involves subscription-based services where users can purchase additional content, such as extra channels, sports programming, or region-specific material, through renewable add-ons.
Last year, Apple required creator platform Patreon to transition to its App Store billing system for iOS app purchases to remain compliant. Patreon announced it would gradually implement this change, aiming for full compliance by November 2025. Apple’s introduction of this API could make it easier to accommodate similar platforms.
Following regulatory changes in the European Union, which require Apple to allow third-party app stores and alternative payment systems, the company has been working to provide additional value for developers to remain within its ecosystem. For instance, Apple has begun permitting retro game emulators globally and enabling developers to offer discounts to customers with inactive subscriptions.
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