Core Insights - Apple has launched the Mini Apps Partner Program to enhance the App Store ecosystem by enabling developers to create mini apps, which are independent experiences built using HTML5 and JavaScript embedded within existing apps [1][8][12] Summary by Sections Mini Apps Definition - Mini apps are independent experiences that can be integrated into existing applications, similar to WeChat mini programs, but are not directly related to Tencent [4][5][12] - The support for mini apps predates the introduction of lightweight apps in 2020, with guidelines established as early as 2017 [4][12] Mini Apps Partner Program - The program allows developers to create mini apps that comply with Apple's guidelines, requiring the host app to be on iOS or iPadOS and to use specific Apple technologies [8][9] - Developers participating in the program can retain 85% of the revenue from in-app purchases, with Apple taking a 15% commission, regardless of the revenue scale [11][12] Historical Context and Future Outlook - The introduction of the Mini Apps Partner Program is seen as a strategic move by Apple to adapt to technological trends and enhance the App Store ecosystem [12][16] - The program aims to provide a safer and more efficient digital goods consumption experience while attracting more developers through lower commission rates [12][13] - There are expectations for the program to expand to more platforms and improve user experiences, with potential collaborations with other services like WeChat [17][18]

Core Insights - Apple has launched the Mini Apps Partner Program, offering a reduced commission rate of 15% on in-app purchases for mini applications [1] Group 1: Mini Apps Definition and Guidelines - A mini app is defined as a "self-contained" experience built using web technologies like HTML5 and JavaScript, distributed within a larger native app [2] - In 2017, Apple added a rule to its App Review Guidelines allowing developers to run mini apps, mini games, streaming games, chatbots, plug-ins, and game emulators [3] - To qualify for the Mini App program, the main app must be available on iOS or iPadOS, hosted on the App Store, and comply with the Apple Developer Program License Agreement and existing App Review Guidelines [4] Group 2: New Requirements and Incentives - The program introduces new requirements for apps to support specific Apple technologies, including the Advanced Commerce API and Declared Age Rating API, ensuring age-appropriate content [5] - Developers are incentivized to leverage Apple's technologies by benefiting from the reduced commission, which could allow them to reinvest in their mini apps program [6] - Apple retains the ability to extract a commission from mini applications as the market evolves [7] Group 3: Market Context and Competition - Various native iOS apps currently offer mini apps, including messengers like LINE and WeChat, and AI providers like ChatGPT have begun to enter the mini app space [8] - Reports indicate that Apple and Tencent agreed to a 15% commission on mini apps in WeChat, but it is unclear if the program will be open to other developers [9] Group 4: Developer Participation - Developers interested in joining the Mini Apps Partner Program must provide information about their host app, eligibility, and mini app, and agree to the program's terms [10] - In-app purchases within mini apps qualify for the reduced commission if they are for digital goods and services, including consumable and non-consumable items, auto-renewable subscriptions, and non-renewing subscriptions [10]