how it works
This program is designed for developers who host mini apps and games, which are experiences that are created using web technologies like HTML5 or JavaScript and delivered within a larger, native app. Participating apps are required to support certain App Store technologies, including Declared Age Limit API and Advanced Commerce API, to provide a secure and seamless experience for customers. As a result, program members earn 85% of qualifying in-app purchase sales within qualifying Mini Apps.
Enforce host app requirements
To be eligible for the Mini Apps Partner Program:
- Your app must be available on the App Store on iOS and iPadOS.
- You must ensure that all Hosted Mini Apps comply with the applicable requirements from the Apple Developer Program license agreement and App Review Guidelines, including the specific requirements listed in Guideline 4.7 – Mini Apps, Mini Games, Streaming Games, Chatbots, Plug-ins, and Game Emulators – and provided a manifest required by Guideline 4.7.4 that is approved by Apple and includes Hosted Mini App metadata.
- You must provide metadata that follows the guidance outlined to identify all Mini App in-app purchases (including non-qualifying) and digital goods and services sold. This helps customers clearly understand what purchases they are making within your eligible Mini Apps, as well as helps Apple identify qualifying in-app purchases and apply the appropriate commission rate.
- Your app should support the following technologies:
- Advanced Commerce APIs and Supporting Technologies To sell eligible Mini Apps and any related purchases as appropriate.
- Declared Age Rating API To help provide age-appropriate content and experiences in your app.
- Apple’s in-app purchasing system Providing users with a familiar and reliable way to make purchases and easily check, view, modify or cancel their purchase history as well as access customer support such as requesting a refund.
- send consumption information Endpoint in the App Store Server API to send information to Apple about a user’s in‑app purchase when they request a refund. This information also helps inform and improve the refund request process.
join the program
If you would like to participate in the Mini Apps Partner Program, submit a request form. Please note that you must be an account holder in the Apple Developer Program. You will be asked to provide information related to your Host App, eligibility and Mini App, as well as agree to the program terms and conditions. If approved, you will receive an email confirmation that will include setup details to help you configure your offers.
make a request
submit for review
Once your app is tested and ready, you’ll submit it for app review. Submit your app Binary and Generic Mini App In-App Purchase Product ID in App Store Connect and be sure to mention that your app uses the Advanced Commerce API and offers mini apps.
If you are currently a participant in the Mini Apps Partner Program and would like to add additional Mini Apps, simply update your manifest with this information as part of your submission process. To add an additional host app, make sure your app has access to the Advanced Commerce API (submit a request) if necessary) and provide an attached manifest describing your host app and associated mini apps.
question and answer
What is Mini App?
Mini Apps are software packages, scripts, or game content that are added after app installation and executed on a device, provided such code is written in HTML5 or JavaScript, or another language approved by Apple. All such code must comply with Section 3.3.1(b) of the Apple Developer Program License Agreement.
What is the qualifying mini app?
An eligible Mini App under the Mini Apps Partner Program is one that is placed by a person or entity that is not directly or indirectly controlled by you, nor under common control with you. For purposes of this definition “control” means that an entity or person has the power, directly or indirectly, to direct or direct the management policies of another entity, whether through ownership of voting securities, interest in registered capital, by contract, or otherwise.
What is a Qualifying Mini App In-App Purchase?
A qualifying in-app purchase is the sale of any digital goods and services within a qualifying mini app, including consumable, non-consumable, auto-renewable subscriptions, and non-renewable subscriptions. These purchases are facilitated by the Advanced Commerce API. For example:
- Consumables, such as currency, lives or items, which are purchased and used instantly within a single eligible mini app. Keep in mind that to qualify as eligible Mini App in-app purchases, these purchases cannot be shared or consumed within Mini Apps.
- An auto-renewing subscription that is purchased and accessed within a single eligible Mini App.
Am I eligible for the Mini Apps Partner Program if I’m already a participant in other Apple programs?
Yes. If approved, your app can participate in the Mini Apps Partner Program, as well as Apple programs such as the Apple Video Partner Programnews partner programOr the App Store Small Business Program.
Can I apply for the program if I am not approved for Advanced Commerce API?
Yes. If you don’t currently have access to the Advanced Commerce API, we recommend applying for Advanced Commerce API access and the Mini Apps Partner Program at the same time. To be accepted for the Mini Apps Partner Program, you must be approved for and support the Advanced Commerce API.
Can I use App Store Connect to manage in-app purchases within my hosted mini apps?
No, to participate in the economic benefits of the Mini Apps Partner Program, you are required to use the Advanced Commerce API to manage any in-app purchases within your hosted Mini Apps. Learn more about creating a SKU for the Mini App Partner Program,
Where can I get more information about the technical details required for participation?
For more details and technical guidance, review our documentation on creating a SKU for the Mini Apps Partner Program and advanced commerce API,