How to Monetize iOS Outside the App Store: Key Takeaways from Our Latest Webinar

Editor's note:

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The rules of the game just changed. Following a major legal ruling, Apple must now allow U.S. developers to include external payment links in their iOS apps - with no fees, no delays, and no more scare screens.

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In this 20-minute conversation, three of Appcharge’s experts - Shuli (Director of Customer Solutions), Itamar (Account Manager), and Omer (VP Partnerships and Strategy) - break down what this ruling means for mobile game publishers and how to seize the opportunity with compliant, high-converting payment flows.

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🎥 Watch the full video below, or scroll down for the highlights.

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What Happened: A Quick Legal Breakdown

The U.S. federal court upheld a 2021 injunction requiring Apple to allow in-app external payment links without taking a cut. Apple’s previous “workaround” (which still charged 27%) was deemed “bad faith compliance.”

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- On April 30, 2025, Apple was ordered to comply immediately.

- Spotify acted fast - updating its app on May 2 with an external link.

- Apple is appealing, but as of now, external payment links are allowed for iOS users in the U.S.

- Globally, pressure is building too. The EU fined Apple €500M for similar anti-steering practices.

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The bottom line? The door is open - but Apple isn’t walking away from billions without a fight. Publishers must stay agile and compliant.

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What to Do Now: Two DTC Tactics to Prioritize

1. Your Web Store is No Longer Optional

This is the moment to put your web store front and center inside the app.

If you don’t have one yet, it’s no longer a “nice-to-have.” This is now your most powerful DTC channel - especially in the U.S.

2. Communicate Value, Not Just the Link

Don’t just say “Buy here.” Tell players why.

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• “Get 20% more for every dollar”
• “Exclusive bundles available only on the web”
• “Limited-time offers”
• Use a clear, standard icon to indicate a link-out.

Be transparent. Trust = retention.

The Ideal Flow: Appcharge Payment Links

Appcharge’s Payment Links let you create a seamless, compliant checkout flow that feels like it’s inside the game - but isn’t.

How it works:

1. Player clicks an offer in-game
2. Redirected to a secure web checkout with game-themed visuals and localized payment methods
3. Completes the purchase
4. Automatically redirected back into the app

Why it’s powerful:

• Feels like a native experience
• Full support for custom design, A/B testing, and alternatve payment methods
• One day integration with full documentation and sample apps
• Built-in MMP support (e.g. Appsflyer) and reporting
• Full Merchant of Record services

Final Advice for Publishers

• Stay flexible. The rules could shift again - quickly.
• Stay compliant. Apple isn’t done pushing back.
• Stay informed. Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on LinkedIn for real-time updates.

Interested in testing Payment Links for your game?

📩 Contact us to request a Sandbox account

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