The in-app purchase rule is often perceived as an unfair or punitive constraint.
However, it follows a very clear logic from Apple and Google’s perspective.
Full control over financial flows
App stores aim to centralize payments made within applications.
Any digital service or content consumed in an app must go through their payment systems.
This allows transaction security and enforcement of economic rules.
A structuring rule for business models
This requirement does more than add a commission.
It deeply affects how products are designed: subscriptions, premium access and paid features.
Some models that work well on the web become difficult to translate into mobile apps.
Why this constraint is problematic in real projects
For WordPress or web-based projects, in-app purchases often require rethinking the existing model.
Subscription management, support and compliance become more complex.
This explains why some solutions deliberately stay away from in-app payments. WPMobile.App didnt support in app purchase.
Making an informed decision early
Ignoring this rule during design almost always leads to forced compromises later.
This topic is closely related to the real costs of mobile apps discussed here:
costs to anticipate on a WordPress app.