iPhone 16 Series Compatible with WeChat! Unveiling the Truth Behind the "Apple Tax" in the Apple-WeChat Feud

iPhone 16 Series Compatible with WeChat! Unveiling the Truth Behind the "Apple Tax" in the Apple-WeChat FeudKuaitech reported on September 19th that all four models in the iPhone 16 series are compatible with WeChat, as confirmed by the renowned tech reviewer Huang Jia Pinglun. This news effectively debunks prior circulating rumors

iPhone 16 Series Compatible with WeChat! Unveiling the Truth Behind the "Apple Tax" in the Apple-WeChat Feud

Kuaitech reported on September 19th that all four models in the iPhone 16 series are compatible with WeChat, as confirmed by the renowned tech reviewer Huang Jia Pinglun. This news effectively debunks prior circulating rumors.

The announcement puts an end to the recent speculation surrounding the "love-hate" relationship between Apple and WeChat. On September 2nd, the hashtag "AppleWeChat" trended on Weibo, fueled by rumors suggesting that iPhone 16 might not support WeChat and that older iPhone users, including those with iPhone 15 series, should refrain from upgrading their operating systems. This sparked widespread discussion and anxiety among users.

Facing mounting public pressure, Apple customer service responded promptly, emphasizing that WeChat is a highly popular app for users and that new iPhones would not restrict access to this essential application.

However, lurking beneath the surface of this controversy is the long-standing "Apple Tax" dispute between Apple and Tencent. According to informed sources, Apple has been pressuring companies like Tencent and ByteDance for several months, demanding they address vulnerabilities in WeChat and Douyin (TikTok) apps. These loopholes allow creators within these apps to redirect users to external payment systems, thereby circumventing Apple's standard 30% commission on in-app purchases.

The "Apple Tax" has been a cornerstone of Apple's revenue since the inception of the App Store in 2008. Data reveals that in 2023, Apple's tax revenue globally reached approximately 160.8 billion RMB, with the Chinese market contributing over 40 billion RMB.

Apple's stringent control over in-app payments has sparked discontent among numerous third-party app developers. They view the "predatory" fee structure as a barrier to innovation and have attempted to bypass Apple's payment system by employing alternative payment platforms or directly using web payment options.

This explains why Apple places so much significance on these "vulnerabilities," striving to secure its own interests by plugging them. However, it has also ignited user and developer concerns regarding Apple's "monopoly" behavior. Critics argue that Apple's actions not only limit user choices but also undermine fair market competition.

Tencent has also voiced its displeasure with the "Apple Tax" and is proactively seeking solutions. During Tencent's Q2 earnings call, Chief Strategy Officer James Mitchell stated that the company is currently in negotiations with Apple to achieve a mutually beneficial outcome that benefits all three parties involved.

The "Apple Tax" battle between Apple and Tencent is not merely about the profits of these tech giants. It reflects the intricate relationship between app distribution platforms and developers in the mobile internet era. As mobile internet technology continues to evolve, similar disputes are likely to arise. Finding a more reasonable and equitable solution through collaborative efforts is paramount to fostering a healthy growth of the entire ecosystem.