Apple Launches Mini Apps Partner Program With Reduced Commission

Apple Inc. has introduced a Mini Apps Partner Program that gives eligible developers an 85% share on qualifying in-app purchases. The program, now open for applications, formalizes how HTML5 and JavaScript mini apps operate inside native iOS and iPadOS apps.

The launch establishes standardized rules for hosting mini games and embedded web experiences, requiring developers to meet specific safety, transparency, and API criteria to access the reduced 15% commission rate.

Apple Strengthens Framework for HTML5 and JavaScript Mini Apps

To qualify for the lower commission, host apps must adopt the Advanced Commerce API to process mini-app purchases and the Declared Age Range API to ensure age-appropriate content. Developers must provide a manifest listing all hosted mini apps and metadata, comply with guideline 4.7 for embedded content, and use Apple’s standard In-App Purchase system.

Apple also requires the App Store Server API to share consumption data during refunds. Qualifying mini apps must be independently operated and tied to a single mini-app purchase flow.

Apple’s economic breakdown shows that only about 10% of App Store-related sales fall into categories where it collects commission, roughly $131B of the $1.3T total in 2024. In the United States, Apple collected over $10.1B in App Store commissions in 2024, according to Appfigures data reported by TechCrunch.

Developers can apply through a request form and once approved, receive setup instructions, before submitting the host app and in-app purchase identifiers for review. Manifests can be updated as new mini apps are added.

The program formalizes an area that has grown steadily since 2017, giving Apple a unified framework for mini apps, while providing developers a clearer monetization path and users more consistent purchase and content standards.