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Apple Launches Mini Apps Partner Program With 15% Cut as WeChat Announces iOS Virtual Payments

The initiative opens a long-missing iOS monetization route for WeChat mini-programs at a lower fee than Apple’s standard take.

Overview

  • Apple’s new program sets a 15% commission on eligible mini‑app purchases, contingent on using App Store technologies and passing review.
  • Eligibility requires integration of Apple’s Advanced Commerce API and Declared Age Range API, plus adherence to the Developer Program and App Review rules.
  • WeChat said mini‑programs on iOS will support virtual payments and promised to provide developer onboarding to enable the new pathway.
  • Bloomberg reported Apple and Tencent reached terms for Apple to process WeChat mini‑app payments at the 15% rate, a deal not yet publicly detailed.
  • Tencent management said relations with Apple are strong and suggested a formal approval could follow, as analysts framed the move as a partial easing of the long-criticized Apple tax in mainland China.