Apple has made a major change to its U.S. App Store rules. App developers can now add links in their apps that take users to other websites for payments. This means developers can use external payment systems instead of Apple’s in-app purchase system.
This update follows a court ruling and could change how apps make money and how users pay for services.
Why Did Apple Change Its Rules?
The change happened because of a legal fight between Apple and Epic Games, the maker of Fortnite. In 2021, a U.S. judge told Apple it must allow developers to tell users about other payment options.
Apple added some rules after that, like charging developers a 27% commission on outside payments and showing warning messages when users tried to pay outside the App Store. But in April 2025, a judge said Apple was not following the original court order and must stop these practices.
What’s New for App Developers?
Now, U.S. developers can apply for special permission called the StoreKit External Purchase Link Entitlement. With this, they can add one link in their app to a website where users can buy digital items or services.
Apple’s New Guidelines:
- The link can only be placed in one part of the app (not in a pop-up).
- It must open in the device’s default browser (not inside the app).
- Developers must clearly tell users they are leaving the App Store and that Apple is not responsible for the payment.
What About Apple’s Commission?
Before, Apple still took a cut (27%) of outside payments. Developers had to report all purchases and send Apple part of the money.
Now, Apple is not allowed to charge any commission on external payments. This is a big win for developers who want to use their own payment systems.
What This Means for Developers and Users
For Developers:
- They can avoid Apple’s fees by using outside payment systems.
- They get more freedom in how they run their business.
- But they still need to follow Apple’s rules and apply for the entitlement.
For Users:
- They might see lower prices in some apps.
- They’ll be able to buy things directly from a developer’s website.
- But they’ll also leave the App Store, and Apple won’t handle customer service for those purchases.
What’s Next?
Apple plans to appeal the latest court decision, so more changes could happen in the future. For now, this update makes the App Store a more open platform for developers in the U.S.
