Why iOS Takes 30% on Virtual Goods and How to Design Fair Pricing

iOS and Android have different rules for purchasing virtual goods such as VIP memberships, live gifts, and game skins. This article briefly explains the differences.

Android, being open‑source, imposes virtually no restrictions or commissions; developers can integrate third‑party payment platforms (WeChat, Alipay, UnionPay). iOS, however, restricts purchases to Apple’s payment system, allowing only limited authorization of Alipay or UnionPay, and typically takes about a 30% commission. Some platforms attempt to add a configurable backend switch to bypass this fee, but such attempts are rare and risky, often leading to blacklisting.

Currently, designers generally consider two options:

Let users bear the 30% commission. For example, the same price yields different virtual currency amounts: a 6 CNY purchase gives 42 gold on iOS but 60 gold on Android. Similarly, a VIP monthly subscription costs 19 CNY on iOS versus 15 CNY on Android. This approach hurts users but is widely adopted.

The company absorbs the 30% commission, charging the same amount on both platforms. This is user‑friendly but causes the company to lose 30% of profit.

It is important to note that some platforms have incompatibility between iOS and Android balances; credits purchased on Android cannot be used on iOS and vice versa.

Summary: Recharge mechanisms affect product profit models, so designers must understand platform rules to avoid unnecessary losses for the company.

Above are personal opinions; any shortcomings are welcome for correction.