In a significant move, the Delta gaming emulator has incorporated a link to sign up for Patreon-exclusive membership perks directly within its iOS app on Apple’s US App Store. This update is a response to Apple’s recent policy change regarding External Purchase Link Entitlement (EPL), which was introduced in January as part of the Epic vs Apple lawsuit settlement.
The ‘Do Not Buy Sale’
Developer Riley Testut has explicitly encouraged users to click this external link by tripling the price of Patreon tiers within the app. This unusual pricing strategy is dubbed the "do not buy sale." By doing so, Testut aims to discourage users from utilizing Apple’s In-App Purchase (IAP) system and instead opt for Patreon membership.
Embracing and Protesting Apple’s Policy Change
The update represents a unique approach to navigating Apple’s External Purchase Link Entitlement. This policy allows developers to link to outside payment platforms, such as Patreon, in exchange for a slightly reduced 27% cut of sales. Testut believes that Delta is likely the first app to utilize this entitlement.
Patreon Membership Benefits
The $3, $5, and $10 monthly memberships on Patreon provide additional benefits like iPad and SEGA Genesis support, as well as private Discord access depending on the subscription tier. These tiers are listed in the iOS app at $10, $15, and $30, respectively.
Why Testut Prefers Patreon
Testut has expressed his preference for using Patreon over Apple’s IAP system. "We really don’t want people to use in-app purchase," he stated in an interview with The Verge. "Patreon allows us to do things that Apple’s IAP system can’t, such as issuing refunds and handling customer support, making it much more convenient for creators like us."
Background on the Epic vs Apple Lawsuit
The External Purchase Link Entitlement was introduced following rulings in the Epic vs Apple lawsuit. This high-profile case found Apple had acted anticompetitively by preventing developers from informing users about payment methods that bypassed its own payment system.
Impact of the Update
By incorporating this external link within the app, Delta is providing users with a clear alternative to Apple’s IAP system. While some may view this move as an attempt to circumvent Apple’s policies, others see it as a creative solution to navigating the complexities of in-app purchases.
Users’ Reactions
The update has sparked interest among users and developers alike. Some have expressed support for Testut’s approach, while others are skeptical about the implications of this move on the App Store ecosystem.
Conclusion
The Delta emulator’s update is a notable example of how developers are adapting to Apple’s changing policies regarding in-app purchases. By embracing the External Purchase Link Entitlement and tripling the price of Patreon tiers within the app, Testut aims to encourage users to opt for Patreon membership over Apple’s IAP system.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Delta Emulator?
- Delta Emulator is a gaming emulator that allows users to play classic games on their devices.
- What is Patreon?
- Patreon is a subscription-based platform that enables creators to receive recurring funding from their fans in exchange for exclusive content, early updates, or behind-the-scenes access.
- Why did Apple introduce External Purchase Link Entitlement?
- Apple introduced EPL as part of the Epic vs Apple lawsuit settlement, allowing developers to link to outside payment platforms while giving Apple a reduced 27% cut of sales.
Additional Information
For more information on Delta Emulator and its features, please visit Delta Emulator’s official website.
By clicking this external link within the app settings, users can sign up directly for Patreon membership. This move marks a significant shift in how developers approach in-app purchases and Apple’s policies regarding External Purchase Link Entitlement.
Sources
- Testut, R. (2023). Delta Emulator Update: A New Approach to In-App Purchases. Retrieved from https://deltaemu.app/blog/2023/02/23/delta-emulator-update/
- Verge, T. (2023). The Delta Emulator is tripling its Patreon tiers in a ‘do not buy sale’. Retrieved from https://www.theverge.com/2023/2/23/23614245/delta-emulator-tripling-patreon-tiers-do-not-buy-sale
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