Xsolla launches external payment option Buy Button for Mobile Games after Apple court ruling

Games commerce company Xsolla has released a new direct-to-consumer payment solution called the Xsolla Buy Button for Mobile Games.

With this, developers can embed direct payment links into their mobile games on iOS, leading to a browser-based checkout powered by Xsolla Web Shop and Xsolla Pay Station.

The release follows shortly after a US court ruling on April 30th, which now forces Apple to allow external payment links in-app without taking a commission. This enables app and games developers to avoid the 30% App Store fee by directing users outside of those apps themselves.

Xsolla’s Buy Button for Mobile Games, then, is a new option to lead those users to an external checkout with minimal clicks.

"This court decision is a turning point for mobile game developers in the US and around the world," said Xsolla CSO Chris Hewish.

The winds of change

Buy Button for Mobile Games has no platform commission and supports synchronised catalogues, able to align with in-game events, seasonal updates, web-based promotions and more.

Through the external service, game developers can also display personalised offers and present their currencies, virtual items and bundles for purchase. Furthermore, the service is compatible with loyalty programmes and personalised reward options, including those tied to player behaviour in-game.

"Developers can register through the Xsolla Publisher account, use the Instant Web Shop template, and generate links in minutes without requiring custom coding. This rollout reinforces Xsolla’s commitment to building flexible, global commerce tools empowering developers to succeed and scale their business across multiple platforms," Hewish added.

Last week’s US court ruling already looks set to cause major shifts in the mobile games landscape, with our Mavens expecting this to be pivotal for both mobile developers and alternative app marketplaces.

The verdict itself has come after a five-year battle between Epic Games and Apple, costing Tim Sweeney's company over $100 million in legal fees up against the tech conglomerate.