Apple and WeChat May Have Reached a Consensus in Their Payment System Dispute, iOS WeChat Resumes Updates

Apple and WeChat May Have Reached a Consensus in Their Payment System Dispute, iOS WeChat Resumes UpdatesRecently, foreign media reported that Apple and WeChat had a conflict over the payment system for WeChat's mini-game platform. Apple demanded that Tencent, WeChat's parent company, close the payment loopholes in WeChat mini-games to prevent developers and users from bypassing Apple's payment system, thus preventing Apple from collecting a 30% commission on in-app purchases, known as the "Apple tax

Apple and WeChat May Have Reached a Consensus in Their Payment System Dispute, iOS WeChat Resumes Updates

Recently, foreign media reported that Apple and WeChat had a conflict over the payment system for WeChat's mini-game platform. Apple demanded that Tencent, WeChat's parent company, close the payment loopholes in WeChat mini-games to prevent developers and users from bypassing Apple's payment system, thus preventing Apple from collecting a 30% commission on in-app purchases, known as the "Apple tax." Apple even threatened to reject WeChat app updates if Tencent didn't take action.

This incident has attracted widespread attention, with the outside world speculating how Apple and WeChat would ultimately resolve the dispute. On September 6, 2024, PChome discovered that WeChat for iOS had resumed updates, with version 8.0.51 released. The official update log revealed that the update primarily resolved some known issues.

Previously, Bloomberg reported that Apple had approved the iOS WeChat update submitted by Tencent this week, buying more time for the two sides to negotiate. This news also corroborated the possibility of iOS WeChat resuming updates.

The resumption of WeChat updates on iOS seems to indicate that Apple and WeChat have reached a consensus regarding the payment system for WeChat's mini-game platform. While there is no definite information on how the two sides ultimately compromised, it's clear that the dispute between Apple and WeChat over the payment system has finally seen a breakthrough.

Apple has always adhered to its in-app purchase policy, requiring developers to use Apple's payment system for purchasing goods or services within apps and pay a 30% commission. This policy has sparked controversy worldwide, with many developers and users deeming Apple's "Apple tax" excessive and calling for lowered commission rates or greater developer choice.

WeChat, as one of the world's largest social media platforms, boasts a massive user base and vibrant activity. Its mini-game platform has attracted numerous developers, generating considerable game revenue. Therefore, the dispute between Apple and WeChat has also garnered widespread attention.

The resolution of this incident holds significant importance not only for Apple and WeChat but also for the entire mobile app ecosystem. It remains to be seen whether Apple will adjust its in-app purchase policy in the future and whether other platforms will follow suit in charging hefty commissions.

In conclusion, the conflict between Apple and WeChat regarding the payment system appears to have subsided, and the resumption of iOS WeChat updates indicates a degree of consensus between the two sides. This resolution will have a profound impact on the mobile app ecosystem and warrants continued attention.