Why does Apple make a minority of developers finance the entire App Store?

a year ago

Apple announced a study showing the App Store facilitated $1.3 trillion in billings and sales in 2024, with over 90% of transactions not paying any commission to Apple.
Apple highlights its investment in developer tools and capabilities, yet most developers benefit without contributing financially.
Apple's 2019 statement criticized Spotify for not contributing to the App Store ecosystem, despite most apps also not paying commissions.
84% of apps in the App Store pay nothing to Apple, a design choice for free apps, ad-supported apps, and those selling physical goods.
Apple charges commissions only for digital goods and services purchased via its In-App Purchase system, which applies to a minority of apps.
Apple's In-App Purchase mandate is controversial, as it forces some developers to finance the ecosystem while others benefit without contributing.
The App Store Small Business Program reduces commissions to 15% for developers earning less than $1 million annually, but its future is uncertain.
Apple's comparison of the App Store to retail stores is flawed, as most retail stores require payment for all products, unlike the App Store's free apps.
Apple finances its platforms primarily through hardware sales, not App Store commissions, making the IAP mandate seem unnecessary.
The iOS App Store's two main issues are 'double-dipping' on developers and forcing a minority to finance the ecosystem for the majority.

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