Thoughts on App Store and Play Store commissions?

Senthilnathan RM
13 replies
I feel a 30% flat commission is a bit high. I'm pretty sure a lot would agree. While Google dropped its commission to 15%, Apple still hasn't (if I am correct). So what are your thoughts on App Store and Play Store commissions? Also, do you think there needs to be another Store similar to them?

Replies

Frank Sondors
It's not like there's much choice you have :(
Mark Howland
I applied for Apple reduced commission of 15%. Just search for it and apply. As long as your apps total revenue are less than $1m/yr you'll be accepted.
@marklive, huh, never knew that. Thanks for the info!
"I think it's unfair that the app stores take a cut of in-app purchases, but not of physical goods."
@qudsia_ali, never knew that. Do they take a cut out of physical goods as well? That's pretty bad.
Shajedul Karim
30% commission is a heated topic, for sure. it's a big slice, especially for indie developers and startups. google's move to 15% was a positive step. shows flexibility and perhaps a little empathy for devs. yet, these platforms provide immense reach and convenience. that's their value proposition, and they know it. alternatives? definitely room for them. monopoly isn't healthy in any ecosystem. competition drives innovation, after all. but, building a new store comes with its challenges. it's not just the tech; it's trust, convenience, and the network. so, what can we do? advocate for change, sure. but also be creative within existing constraints. think multi-platform, diversified income streams. and for those who have switched to web apps or direct sales: share your experience. pros, cons? the community needs diverse insights. love to hear everyone's thoughts on this. it's a collective challenge and it calls for a collective conversation.
@shajedulkarim_, spot on, I agree with you. I wish for more such stores that could help with distribution so the dependencies on the big two stores become less.
Daniel Hunt
You're preaching to the choir as far as I'm concerned! So steep
@daniel_hunt4 , so you are saying what App and Play Stores are doing is fine? As far as I know, I'm just sharing a topic that's up for debate to understand different perspectives.
Tyler Scott
Apple is just ridiculous. Not only do you have to pay $100/yr for a developer account they also take a 30% commission. Google's model is much better for developers. A one time payment of $20 for a developer account as well as 15% commission. There really isn't any extra value to Apple's ecosystem either other than it's the largest.
@scottlabsai , ikr. I wish either a better entrant takes up a stand or Apple lowers its pricing.