Apple will allow subscription bundles in the App Store that group services like Instagram Plus and Tinder Platinum, mimicking streaming platform combos. However, the final price will not be a saving for the user. The company imposes its store and a 30% commission on each bundle, which increases the total cost compared to purchasing the subscriptions separately.
How the new bundled subscription system works on iOS 🛠️
Technically, these bundles are managed through Apple's StoreKit API, which allows developers to offer combined subscriptions under a single payment receipt. Each service within the combo must comply with App Store guidelines, and Apple retains its 30% commission on the total bundle during the first year, reducing to 15% on subsequent renewals. This means the developer must raise the bundle price to cover the commission, resulting in a higher cost for the end user than if they contracted each service independently outside the store.
The happiness combo: pay more for less, courtesy of Cupertino 😅
So now you know: if you want to hook up on Tinder Platinum while watching stories on Instagram Plus, Apple makes it easy for you... and expensive. It's like going to an all-you-can-eat buffet where you pay for the plate, the cutlery, the tablecloth, and the waiter's smile. The genius of it is that this combo has no discount; it's the same price you would pay separately, but with the extra that Apple takes a juicy commission. Good thing it's for your own good, right? 🍏