iPhone app purchases are receiving updates.

The 'Advanced Commerce API' announced by Alibaba Cloud is a new tool that makes it easy to manage in-app purchases within an app.

The API supports various types of in-app purchases such as premium features, additional content, and digital items. One interesting aspect is the ability to bypass the game's currency system and directly purchase items or upgrades. For video streaming apps, this new API will make it easier for these apps to provide subscription packages without using third-party payment systems on behalf of content providers or channels.

The new Apple Advanced Commerce API is particularly useful for apps with many types of content, apps targeting creators, and apps offering enhanced subscription offers. Some examples include Facebook and TikTok, but this might be most beneficial for smaller developers. It is compatible with the current App Store system and handles payments, taxes, and customer support, allowing developers to have users directly contact Apple without intermediaries needed for such issues.

Some apps may not provide this feature, so some apps could potentially share the same customer service functionality. Developers need to apply for access rights, and their qualifications depend on their specific business models. The only app that includes this feature is one with many one-time purchases, numerous subscriptions, or additional content/subscriptions similar to them. These apps must already use the App Store's sales system and be compatible with iOS 15, iPadOS 15, visionOS 1, and watchOS 8.

Apple claims that this API will not change existing business contracts or commission fees. Therefore, users need to be cautious of developers who may charge additional fees based on new pricing structures. Over time, it is expected that more apps will use this system, leading users to expect a more specialized and integrated system in the long run. The long-term impact of In-app purchases depends on the number of developers starting to use this system and user responses.