thumb django web fixed 8

How To Avoid App Store Fees When Selling Tickets

by

Selling tickets through your app can be a great way to reach a wider audience, but the App Store and Google Play Store fees can significantly cut into your profits. This article explores strategies to mitigate or avoid these fees, allowing you to maximize your revenue.

Understanding the App Store Tax

Apple and Google typically charge a commission on in-app purchases of digital goods and services. This commission can range from 15% to 30%, depending on factors like developer size and subscription status. This “app store tax” can be a significant burden for businesses selling tickets.

Strategies to Avoid App Store Fees

Here are a few practical strategies to consider:

1. Selling Physical Tickets or Bundled Products

If you’re sending physical tickets, the commission fees often don’t apply. Consider this as a viable option for your use case. You can also bundle a physical item with the digital ticket to potentially bypass the tax.

2. Out-of-App Purchases: The Web View Approach

The most direct way to avoid app store fees is to process payments outside of the app environment. This typically involves directing users to a web page (a web view within your app or an external website) to complete their purchase.

Implementation Steps:

  1. Create a secure payment gateway on your website.
  2. Integrate a web view into your app that displays your payment page.
  3. When users click “Buy Tickets,” redirect them to the payment page within the web view.
  4. After a successful purchase, redirect users back to your app to access their tickets.

// Example Flutter code snippet for launching a web view:

import 'package:webview_flutter/webview_flutter.dart';

WebView(
  initialUrl: 'https://your-website.com/payment',
  javascriptMode: JavascriptMode.unrestricted,
  onPageFinished: (String url) {
    if (url.contains('success')) {
      // Handle successful payment and redirect back to the app
      // You can use a custom URL scheme to communicate with the app
    }
  },
)

Considerations:

  • Requires development and maintenance of a secure payment gateway on your website.
  • Apple specifically prohibits directing users within the app to alternative purchase methods outside of the app. This rule is strictly enforced. Do not directly advertise external payment options within your app.
  • Ensure a seamless user experience when transitioning between the app and the web view.

3. Leveraging Mobile Web

Instead of developing a native app, consider focusing on a mobile-optimized website. Users can access your ticketing platform through their mobile browser, bypassing the app stores entirely.

Advantages:

  • No app store fees.
  • Easier to update and maintain.
  • Broader reach (works on all devices with a web browser).

4. Tax Write Off

Consult with a tax professional to determine if the app store fee can be a tax write off.

Common Errors and Solutions

Error: App Store Rejection for Circumventing Purchase Rules

Description: Your app is rejected because it violates Apple’s guidelines by directing users to purchase tickets outside of the app store payment system.

Solution: Remove any direct references to external payment options within the app’s UI or descriptions. Don’t explicitly instruct users to purchase tickets on your website. Focus on a seamless, integrated experience that respects app store policies.

Important Considerations

  • User Experience: Prioritize a smooth and intuitive purchasing process for your users, regardless of the payment method.
  • Security: Ensure your payment gateway and data handling practices are secure and compliant with relevant regulations (e.g., PCI DSS).
  • Terms of Service: Carefully review the App Store and Google Play Store developer guidelines to ensure your approach is compliant.
  • Legal Advice: Consult with a legal professional to ensure your business practices are compliant with all applicable laws and regulations.

Conclusion

Avoiding app store fees requires careful planning and execution. By implementing one of these strategies, you can potentially increase your profits while providing a convenient and secure ticketing experience for your users. Remember to prioritize compliance with app store guidelines and provide excellent customer support.