Apple's US App Store Commission Revenue Down 18% This Year
Apple's commission revenue from the App Store is declining in markets where it has loosened its control over in-app purchases. New analytics data indicates an 18 percent drop in U.S. commission revenue since early 2026. App Store revenue has also decreased in Brazil and Japan following the implementation of new regulations in those countries. U.S. consumer spending through the App Store saw a 6 percent decline in the second quarter, a significant shift from the previous year's 9 percent growth. These trends align with Apple's recent acknowledgment that regulatory changes are impacting its Services growth. During Apple's earnings call, services revenue for the June quarter, while a record, fell short of analyst expectations. Historically, Apple earned a commission of 15 to 30 percent on digital purchases within its App Store. A U.S. court ruling has compelled Apple to allow developers to direct users to alternative payment methods without commission. This U.S. injunction, specifically one won by Epic Games, has significantly contributed to the slowdown. Apple has ceased collecting fees from these external payment links in the U.S. since April 2025.