Monetisation trends 2025: Insights from Elevatix CEO Kseniia Maiboroda on revolutionising IAPs

Over the past decade, the mobile gaming industry has dramatically evolved, becoming the cornerstone of monetisation strategies. From cosmetic upgrades to gameplay enhancements, IAPs have fueled the growth of free-to-play games and reshaped consumer spending habits. 

As we look ahead to 2025, the landscape is poised for another transformation, driven by advanced technologies and shifting consumer expectations. To explore these changes, we spoke with Kseniia Maiboroda, CEO and Co-Founder of Elevatix, a leader in AI-driven monetisation solutions for mobile games.

Pocketgamer.biz: What are your thoughts on the current state of IAPs in mobile gaming?

Kseniia Maiboroda: In-app purchases have been instrumental in driving revenue for mobile games, but the market is showing signs of fatigue. Players are increasingly wary of repetitive models like pay-to-win mechanics or microtransactions for cosmetic items. While these approaches have been lucrative, they often fail to engage players meaningfully. Today’s consumers are looking for value-driven experiences—purchases that enhance their connection to the game rather than disrupt it."

What key trends do you foresee shaping IAPs in 2025?

Several exciting trends are emerging that will redefine how players interact with in-app purchases:

• Personalisation: AI-driven recommendations will tailor offers based on individual user behaviour and preferences, creating a more relevant and enjoyable experience.
• Subscription Hybrids: Combining subscriptions with one-time IAPs will allow players to access premium features or rewards while maintaining flexibility.
  Collaborative Purchases: Social interactions will increasingly influence the experience, featuring group incentives that allow players to work together towards common objectives or rewards.
• Ethical Monetisation: Transparency and long-term trust will take precedence over short-term gains. Developers need to ensure that players feel valued and respected.

What role do emerging technologies play in transforming IAP strategies

Technology is at the heart of this transformation. AI is enabling real-time dynamic pricing models that adapt to a player’s engagement level and spending capacity. This ensures that offers feel fair and tailored rather than arbitrary. Additionally, ML algorithms are helping developers predict player behaviours, allowing them to create more personalised and timely offers. These technologies not only enhance monetisation but also deepen player engagement by delivering experiences that feel intuitive and rewarding.

What challenges do you foresee in 2025, and how should the industry tackle them?

The biggest challenge is finding the right balance between monetisation and player satisfaction. Developers must prioritise accessibility and fairness while keeping games fun for all demographics.

What strategies are Elevatix focusing on to revolutionise IAPs?

At Elevatix, we’re committed to innovation through:

• Localised Monetisation: Tailoring IAP offers based on regional preferences and spending behaviours.
• Smart Reward Systems: Incentivising meaningful achievements or time spent in-game rather than arbitrary purchases.
• Community-Driven Models: Leveraging social connections to drive organic purchases.
  Our AI engine analyzes billions of data points daily to provide personalised solutions that boost player engagement while respecting their preferences.

As we move into 2025, innovation in IAPs will be defined by personalisation, transparency, and ethical considerations.

The future of mobile gaming lies not just in profitability but in building trust and lasting relationships with players.