Delta Emulator Leverages New App Store Rules to Boost Patreon Support

The recent court ruling against Apple’s App Store policies has opened new avenues for app developers to monetize their products without paying Apple's traditional commission fees. One notable example is the Delta game emulator, which updated its iOS app to allow users to subscribe directly to its Patreon membership from within the app.

This update was approved following a court decision that mandated Apple to permit external payment links in U.S. App Store apps, a significant shift from previous restrictions. Previously, Apple charged a 30% commission on in-app purchases, which was reduced to 27% for web sales, but still limited developers’ revenue potential.

Delta’s new feature allows users to join its Patreon page directly from the app’s Settings screen, enabling subscriptions without Apple’s commission. This direct linking removes the previously mandatory “scare screens” that discouraged users from making external purchases, enhancing user experience and developer revenue.

While Delta still offers Apple’s in-app purchase option, it is now hidden under an “Alternative Payment Methods” menu, reflecting a subtle shift in how payment options are presented to users. This approach mirrors Apple’s own tactics of burying less favored settings deep within menus.

This development is significant for smaller developers who have struggled with Apple’s high commission fees, often limiting their ability to sustain and grow their apps. By enabling direct support through platforms like Patreon, developers can retain a larger share of their revenue, encouraging innovation and diversity in the App Store ecosystem.

The ruling and subsequent app updates like Delta’s could revitalize indie app development, which has seen declines amid increasing competition and platform restrictions. Other major apps such as Spotify, Amazon Kindle, and Patreon have also adopted external payment links, signaling a broader shift in app monetization strategies.

In summary, the Delta emulator’s embrace of the new App Store rules exemplifies how legal and regulatory changes can empower developers to explore innovative business models. This shift not only benefits developers by increasing revenue potential but also enhances user choice and experience within mobile apps.