# Apple’s Revised App Store Payment Guidelines: Delta Emulator Pioneers the Movement
In recent times, Apple has encountered considerable criticism and legal hurdles concerning its App Store regulations, especially regarding payment methods. One of the most controversial topics has been the firm’s ban on third-party payment alternatives, which has sparked numerous conflicts with developers and regulatory authorities globally. Nevertheless, a recent development could indicate a transformation in Apple’s stance on app payments, as the well-known game emulator **Delta** emerges as the first app in the U.S. to facilitate links to external payment methods.
## Delta Emulator: A Revolutionary Step
Delta, a prominent game emulator, has garnered attention not just for its features but also for its contentious past within the App Store framework. Recently, Delta’s creator, Riley Testut, revealed that the app now features an in-app link that enables users to make purchases outside of the App Store. This functionality employs Apple’s **External Purchase Link Entitlement**, which was launched earlier this year.
As per **John Voorhees** from *MacStories*, this advancement is noteworthy. Testut asserts that Delta is the first app he knows of in the U.S. App Store to adopt this entitlement. While there may be other applications that have utilized this capability, Delta distinguishes itself as the most prominent example thus far.
## Grasping the External Purchase Link Entitlement
Apple’s External Purchase Link Entitlement permits developers to embed links within their apps that guide users to external payment options. Nevertheless, Apple continues to claim a fraction of the revenue generated from these external sales, though at a lower rate, especially for developers participating in Apple’s App Store Small Business Program.
The entitlement has specific criteria that apps must satisfy to qualify:
1. The app must be accessible on the iOS or iPadOS App Store in the United States.
2. The app must provide in-app purchases when delivered through the U.S. App Store.
3. The app must not engage in Apple’s Video Partner Program or News Partner Program.
The final stipulation prevents streaming platforms like Netflix and Disney+ as well as news apps such as The New York Times from leveraging this new payment alternative. However, it opens avenues for numerous other applications, especially those crafted by independent developers.
## Consequences for Developers and Users
The rollout of the External Purchase Link Entitlement signifies a remarkable change in Apple’s App Store protocols, potentially favoring indie developers like Testut. By permitting external payment avenues, developers can keep a larger portion of their earnings and provide users with more adaptable purchasing choices.
This modification may stimulate a wider trend where additional apps seek and obtain this entitlement, promoting a more competitive atmosphere within the App Store. For users, this translates to potentially reduced costs and increased options for acquiring in-app content.
## Conclusion
Apple’s recent move to permit select apps to connect to external payment methods signifies a crucial turning point in the ongoing discussion surrounding App Store policies. As Delta Emulator leads the way in this new era, it will be fascinating to observe how other developers react and whether this new flexibility will cultivate a more varied and user-friendly App Store experience.
What are your thoughts on Apple’s updated App Store payment regulations? Will this alteration have a favorable effect on developers and users alike? Feel free to share your opinions in the comments below.
