Apple will take a mini commission from mini app developers

Apple is launching a new program for mini-app developers that reduces its fees for in-app purchases. On Thursday, the company announced that mini-app creators who join the program receive a lower commission rate of 15%, half the 30% rate Apple charges other developers.

Apple describes mini apps as “standalone experiences” created using HTML5 and JavaScript that exist within another app. The format has become popular in China, where apps like Tencent-owned WeChat have built-in services for ride-hailing, food delivery, payment, and more. Telegram and Discord also offer mini apps, while Snapchat and TikTok have also experimented with them.

News of the program comes just hours after Apple struck a deal with Tencent, allowing it to charge a 15% commission on purchases made in WeChat’s mini apps. Part of the Justice Department’s antitrust lawsuit against Apple accuses the company of stifling super apps, or apps that offer a range of services (or mini apps) on a single platform. This decision could help alleviate this antitrust pressure.

Apple says its new program will help “developers who host mini apps grow their businesses and increase the availability of mini apps in the App Store.”