The Apple Mini Apps Partner Program allows developers to host mini apps and games inside a native iOS or iPadOS app using web technologies like HTML5 or JavaScript. Since 2017, the App Store has supported self-contained mini app experiences, and with this program, Apple provides a more enhanced and seamless customer experience while helping developers grow their business — with up to 85% commission earnings on qualifying In-App Purchases.
In this guide, we’ll explain how the Mini Apps Partner Program works, eligibility requirements, supported technologies, and benefits for developers.
What Is the Apple Mini Apps Partner Program?
The Mini Apps Partner Program is designed for developers who host mini apps, games, streaming games, chatbots, plug-ins, and game emulators inside their main native app. These mini apps are web-based and are distributed within a larger host app available on the App Store.
Apple’s goal is to help developers offer richer experiences to users while ensuring safety, compliance, and a trusted purchase system.
How the Program Works
Participating host apps must support certain App Store technologies, including:
- Declared Age Rating API — Helps provide age-appropriate content and user experience.
- Advanced Commerce API — Enables developers to offer qualifying in-app purchases and manage merchandising.
Once accepted, program members earn 85% of qualifying In-App Purchases within qualifying mini apps. This lets developers keep a higher portion of revenue generated through digital goods and services.
Host App Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Mini Apps Partner Program, your host app must meet the following requirements:
1. App Availability
- The host app must be available on iOS and iPadOS via the App Store.
2. Compliance With Apple Guidelines
- All mini apps hosted inside the native app must comply with:
- Apple Developer Program License Agreement
- App Review Guidelines
- Guideline 4.7 (covering mini apps, mini games, streaming games, chatbots, plug-ins, game emulators)
- Manifest requirements per guideline 4.7.4, approved by Apple and including hosted mini app metadata.
3. Metadata Requirements
- You must provide clear metadata that:
- Identifies all mini app in-app purchases — both qualifying and non-qualifying.
- Clearly describes digital goods and services sold.
- Helps Apple and users distinguish qualifying purchases to apply the right commission rate.
4. Technology Support
The host app must fully support the following technologies:
| Required Technology | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Advanced Commerce API | Enables proper merchandising of qualifying mini app purchases. |
| Declared Age Rating API | Ensures age-appropriate content and personalized experiences. |
| Apple’s In-App Purchase system | Provides a trusted and familiar way for users to buy, view, manage, or request refunds. |
Key Benefits for Developers
Joining the Mini Apps Partner Program brings several advantages:
Earn Higher Revenue Share
Developers receive 85% of qualifying in-app purchase sales, higher than the standard App Store revenue share.
Improved Purchase Experience
With Apple’s secure in-app purchase system, users can easily track purchase history, manage subscriptions, or request refunds — boosting trust and user satisfaction.
Compliant, Scalable Mini App Hosting
Apple’s guidelines ensure mini apps hosted within your native app are secure, compliant, and built for scalability using web technologies.
Streamlined Age-Appropriate Experiences
Using the Declared Age Rating API, you can deliver content tailored to user age — increasing trust and compliance.
Final Thoughts
Apple’s Mini Apps Partner Program is a strong opportunity for developers wanting to host mini apps, games, chatbots, and web-powered experiences inside a native iOS app — while enjoying a higher revenue share and improving user experience. By supporting Apple’s key APIs, meeting compliance standards, and offering clear metadata, developers can unlock growth and monetization opportunities on the App Store.
Looking to apply? Make sure your app follows guideline 4.7, supports the necessary APIs, and is live on iOS/iPadOS to get started.
