U.S. iOS Developers Can Now Use Third-Party Payment Gateways for Virtual Goods — A Game-Changer for App Builders

For a long time, iPhone app developers — especially those using no-code tools like Appy Pie’s iPhone app builder and iOS app maker — were severely limited when it came to accepting payments for virtual goods. Apple’s strict policies banned third-party payment gateways like Stripe, PayPal, and Braintree for virtual transactions within iOS apps, forcing developers to rely solely on Apple’s in-app purchase system.

The consequence? If your app included external payment links for virtual goods, it would likely get rejected by Apple.

But now, that’s no longer the case.

What’s Changed for iOS Developers?

Thanks to a recent U.S. court ruling, Apple has updated its App Store Review Guidelines — specifically for apps distributed on the United States storefront — to allow greater freedom in how payments are handled.

Previously, developers using platforms like Appy Pie’s app maker were restricted from integrating third-party checkout options. Now, those rules have been relaxed significantly.

Appy Pie Users, Here’s What This Means for You

If you’re using Appy Pie’s app builder to create an iPhone app that sells virtual goods — such as digital content, memberships, subscriptions, or NFTs — you can now:

• Add external buttons and links that lead to third-party payment platforms like Stripe, PayPal, or Braintree
• Enable users to purchase digital content directly from a browser, outside of Apple’s in-app payment system
• Avoid Apple’s 30% commission fees by providing commission-free payment options

Whether you’re building an eLearning platform, a digital art gallery, or a content subscription service, these changes give you more control and flexibility when using an iOS app maker like Appy Pie.

A Closer Look at Apple’s App Review Guideline Updates

Here are the key updates affecting apps on the U.S. App Store:

• Section 3.1.1: Apps can now include buttons, links, and calls to action for browsing NFT collections owned by others.
• Section 3.1.1(a): No special entitlement is required to include buttons or external links in apps on the U.S. storefront.
• Section 3.1.3: Developers can now encourage users to use external payment methods.
• Section 3.1.3(a): The External Link Account Entitlement is no longer required for apps on the U.S. storefront.

You can view the full App Store Review Guidelines here.

Why This Is a Big Win for App Creators?

This change levels the playing field for independent developers and small businesses using no-code tools like Appy Pie’s iPhone app maker. You can now create fully functional, revenue-generating apps that aren’t bound by Apple’s in-app payment system — as long as your app is listed on the U.S. App Store and deals with virtual goods.

Build Smarter. Monetize Better. Go Global.

Appy Pie’s powerful app builder now offers even more possibilities for monetizing your app. Whether you’re targeting global users or focusing on the U.S. market, you can now integrate third-party payment gateways with confidence and compliance.

Have questions or need help integrating this new capability into your app? Our support team is here to help.