Developers on the US App Store can now add buttons, links, and calls to action that send users directly to external websites for purchases-no special entitlement or approval process required. This update, effective May 2025, means apps can openly display prices and encourage users to choose alternative payment methods for digital goods and services. Notably, these links must open in an external browser, and developers must use Apple’s prescribed templates and icons to maintain consistency and user clarity1234.

• These new payment link freedoms are strictly limited to apps distributed via the US App Store; developers outside the US must stick to the old restrictions unless they qualify for specific entitlements123.

• Apps already enrolled in Apple’s Video Partner or News Partner Programs are carved out from these changes and remain ineligible for the external payment link provisions45.

• To maintain user clarity and compliance, developers must adhere to technical requirements, including using Apple’s official templates and icons for external links, and ensuring that all such links open in an external browser window rather than within the app itself615.

Despite removing barriers to external payment options, Apple will still collect a 27% commission on purchases made through these external links-just slightly lower than the standard 30% fee charged for in-app purchases.12 This commission applies to digital goods and services purchased within seven days of a user clicking an external link from a US app.34

Developers must submit detailed transaction reports within 15 days after each month ends, after which Apple will invoice them for commissions owed.56 This reporting requirement creates new administrative responsibilities for app creators, with late payments potentially incurring interest fees. Payment processing companies like Stripe have already begun offering solutions to help developers navigate these new payment options while avoiding Apple's commission where possible.7

A scathing decision from Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers forced the policy overhaul, after finding the company in contempt for dragging its feet and using design tricks to steer users away from external payments12. The court’s order not only mandated immediate compliance-removing all barriers to off-app purchases-but also opened the door to a possible criminal contempt investigation for previous non-compliance12. While the company has stated its intent to appeal, the ruling is in effect, and the new guidelines reflect the court’s demand for a level playing field for developers and consumers345.