Turning a mobile app idea into real revenue takes more than a brilliant concept—it requires a deep understanding of how platforms like the App Store and Google Play operate. With Apple’s commission fees reaching up to 30%, knowing how to legally minimize these costs is crucial. In this complete 2025 guide, you’ll discover how to make money with an app using proven monetization strategies—all while staying compliant with platform policies and maximizing your profits.
How to Make Money with an App in Apple’s Ecosystem
Before diving into Apple’s commission policies, it’s important to understand why the tech giant enforces such strict control over in-app payments and what monetization options are available for your mobile app.
Why Does Apple Strictly Control In-App Payments?
Apple prioritizes user security and transparent transactions. That’s why it mandates that most digital purchases be processed through its In-App Purchase (IAP) system. This means Apple handles the payments and takes a commission—typically 30%, although it’s usually reduced to 15% for most developers starting out. While this high commission poses a challenge for app owners looking to monetize digital products effectively, there are completely legal methods to reduce or even bypass these fees, all while remaining within Apple’s guidelines.
Legal Ways to Make Money with an App Without Using In-App Purchases (IAP)
Monetizing your mobile app doesn’t have to mean giving away a large portion of your revenue to a tech giant. Here are eight scenarios where you can legally use alternative payment methods:
1. Reader Apps – External Subscriptions
If you’re developing an app that provides access to digital content purchased outside the App Store, you can allow users to access that content in the app without additional charges.
Practical Example: Platforms like Netflix or Spotify let users log in to existing accounts and enjoy content purchased outside Apple’s ecosystem. Moreover, with special entitlement, you can even include a link to your website where users can manage their subscriptions.
2. Cross-Platform Services – A Strategy to Bypass Commissions
Apps available on multiple platforms (iOS, Android, web) can allow access to features purchased elsewhere, which is an effective strategy for monetizing your app.
Important: Digital products available in the iOS app must also be purchasable via IAP, but users can still use content purchased on other platforms.
3. Business Solutions – B2B Without Commission
Apps sold directly to organizations (B2B) can completely bypass the IAP system. This is especially beneficial for startups creating tools for businesses.
Example: A CRM app sold directly to companies for use by their employees can use alternative payment systems, maximizing app monetization profits.
4. One-on-One Services – Direct App Monetization
Apps that connect people for real-time one-on-one interactions can use external payment systems, offering another way to make money with an app without sharing revenue with Apple.
Use Case: Platforms for booking coaching sessions, medical consultations, or online lessons can implement their own payment solutions.
5. Physical Goods and Services – Full Payment Flexibility
Apps selling physical products or services consumed outside the app (e.g., food, clothing, tickets) have complete freedom in choosing payment systems. If you’re planning to make money with an app that sells non-digital products, the App Store won’t charge you its usual commission.
Optimization Tip: Consider integrating Apple Pay—not mandatory, but it enhances user experience and is positively viewed by Apple.
6. Apps Supporting Paid Online Services
Free mobile apps that complement paid online services don’t need to implement IAP, as long as they don’t offer in-app purchases or promote external transactions.
Example: A mobile client for managing hosting or cloud storage can serve as a great add-on to a paid online service.
7. Ad Management Tools
Apps solely for managing advertising campaigns are exempt from using IAP, offering a unique niche for app monetization.
Note: If you sell ads that are displayed within the same app, you must use IAP.
8. Hardware-Linked Features
Apps that work with physical devices can unlock additional features without using IAP—as long as those features are directly tied to the hardware.
Use Case: Smart home, health device, or automotive apps can offer advanced features without paying Apple commissions.
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Use These Effective Strategies to Make Money with an App
In addition to understanding the loopholes in Apple’s commission system, it’s also worth exploring various monetization models that can help boost your app’s revenue.
One-Time Purchase – The Traditional Revenue Model
The simplest way to earn money from your app is to charge a one-time download fee. However, this model only works well when the app delivers clear and immediate value to the user.
Tip: A paid app should offer unique features not found in free alternatives. An added bonus for users is the absence of ads.
Freemium and Microtransactions – Make Money with an App Flexibly
The freemium model allows users to download the app for free, with the option to purchase additional features. This is often a more effective strategy than charging upfront, as it lowers the entry barrier.
Optimization: Carefully design the microtransaction structure to strike a balance between free functionality and premium perks, maximizing conversion rates.
Advertising and Affiliate Programs – Passive Income Streams
Monetizing through ads and affiliate programs can become a significant revenue source, especially for apps with a large user base.
Example: Apple’s affiliate program offers commissions for recommending Apple products and services, which can be an additional revenue stream for your app.
How to Legally Avoid Apple’s Commission and Stay Out of Trouble
Avoiding Apple’s commission must always be done in compliance with their guidelines to prevent app rejection. Here are the key rules you need to follow:
1. In-Depth Understanding of App Store Guidelines
Thoroughly studying the App Store Review Guidelines is essential to make money with an app without risking penalties. Since Apple’s rules evolve over time, it’s crucial to stay up to date with the latest updates.
2. No Promotion of Alternative Payment Methods Within the App
While certain cases allow the use of external payment methods, you’re not permitted to promote or link to them directly from within your app. Communication regarding alternative payment options must occur outside the app (e.g., via email).
Pro Tip: Instead of directly mentioning external payment options, suggest that users visit your website for more details about your products and services.
3. Obtaining Proper Permissions from Apple
If you plan to use exceptions that require Apple’s approval (e.g., adding links to external payment options in reader-type apps), ensure you get official authorization before implementing such solutions.
Process: Prepare detailed documentation of your business model and contact the App Review team to discuss your case.
App Store Optimization (ASO) – Key to Boosting Reach and Make Money with an App
Successful monetization also depends on your app’s visibility in the App Store. ASO can significantly increase downloads without extra marketing costs.
Optimizing App Title and Description
The app title (up to 50 characters) should include primary keywords. A well-optimized title can boost downloads by up to 30%.
Example: Instead of just “FitPlan,” consider “FitPlan: Your Personal Fitness Coach and Daily Diet Plan” – a phrase that clearly describes the app’s value and attracts users seeking comprehensive fitness and nutrition support.
Using Visual Assets Effectively
An eye-catching icon, informative screenshots, and a demo video can drastically improve your app’s conversion rate. Research shows that updating your icon alone can increase downloads by up to 25%.
Summary: How to Make Money with an App Effectively Within the Apple Ecosystem
In order to make money with an app that’s in the App Store you need a strategic mindset and a deep understanding of Apple’s rules. While Apple’s commissions can significantly impact your business model, this guide has shown that there are multiple legitimate ways to reduce or bypass them.
The key to success is understanding when you can use alternative payment methods and when you’re required to use Apple’s In-App Purchases (IAP). Equally important is designing a revenue model that maximizes income while staying fully compliant with Apple’s guidelines.
Remember, successful monetization isn’t just about choosing the right strategy—it’s also about making your app visible. Investing in ASO can drastically increase downloads and attract more potential customers.
By following the strategies in this guide, you can effectively make money with an app, minimize Apple’s commissions, and stay within the platform’s rules. Good luck growing your mobile business!
