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App Store Opens Up – iPhone Apps Embrace Outside Payments

San Francisco, California, USA

May 12, 2025 0 Positive General

A recent court ruling has forced Apple to let developers include direct links to outside payment pages within iOS apps. Big names like Spotify and Netflix quickly updated their apps so users can subscribe or buy content on the app’s website link rather than Apple’s in-app purchase system. Apple typically collects up to a 30% commission on transactions, so bypassing that can save developers (and possibly users) money. For consumers, it means a more seamless sign-up experience—no more cryptic “visit our website.” Apple is appealing, yet for now, US iPhone users see these new options. Developers call it a win for open competition; Apple warns about potential user confusion and security concerns. Still, the app economy’s gate is cracking open.

What this means for you:

•	If you subscribe to apps like Spotify or Netflix, you might see discount offers or free trials made possible by skipping Apple’s cut.
•	When checking out, confirm the external payment site is legitimate—avoid phishing by verifying domain names.
•	Payment flows may differ: some apps still accept Apple Pay in-app, while others push you to a web browser.
•	In the meantime, smaller app developers who rely on Apple’s system may keep that route for convenience, but you might occasionally find deals by using the new external link.

Key Entities

• Apple: Tech giant behind the App Store, known for taking a 15-30% cut of digital purchases.
• Spotify and Netflix: Leading streaming services that quickly added external payment links to avoid Apple’s commission.
• Federal Court Order: Struck down Apple’s anti-steering rule, forcing them to permit outbound links for purchases.
• Epic Games v. Apple: The high-profile antitrust lawsuit that triggered discussions on in-app fees and external payment options.

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App Store Opens Up – iPhone Apps Embrace Outside Payments

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