NetEase Responds to Apple's Commission Reduction: Win-Win for Platform and Developers

Phoenix Technology News, March 13 — Apple announced a reduction in commission rates. Following discussions with Chinese regulatory authorities, starting March 15, 2026, the commission rates for the China mainland App Store for iOS and iPadOS will be adjusted. The standard commission rate for in-app purchases and paid apps will be reduced from 30% to 25%.

In response, NetEase stated: “This adjustment in the commission policy not only promotes a healthy industry cycle and achieves a win-win situation for platforms and developers but also has long-term constructive significance for the prosperity of China’s mobile internet application ecosystem.”

Earlier, Tencent issued a statement saying: “Apple’s adjustment of the App Store commission policy in China is exciting for the industry.”

According to media reports, for a long time, Apple has charged developers a commission through its app store and in-app payment services, commonly known as the “Apple Tax.” Whether users purchase paid apps or recharge, buy virtual goods and services within free apps, Apple takes a share.

For example, in live streaming tips, recharging 10 yuan, Android users can receive 100 virtual diamonds, while iOS users often only get 70, with the remaining portion taken by Apple. This model is also considered by outsiders as “feathering the nest.”

The reduction of the Apple Tax will bring direct benefits to developers and consumers. For developers, the lower commission rate will significantly increase profit margins. It is estimated that this rate adjustment will save domestic developers over 6 billion yuan annually, helping domestic companies participate more fairly in international competition. For consumers, the long-standing premium on digital goods and services on iOS is expected to gradually disappear, and prices for memberships, game recharges, live tips, and mini-program payments may decrease.

(Edited by: Zhang Xiaobo)

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