Screenshots indicate TikTok may be avoiding Apple App Store fees

TikTok, the popular social video app owned by ByteDance, may be finding a way to bypass the hefty commissions charged by Apple on in-app purchases. Recent findings suggest that TikTok is offering some users the option to purchase coins used for tipping creators through a website, tiktok.com, instead of the traditional in-app purchase method that incurs a 30% commission to Apple.

The feature seems to be selectively available to certain users, possibly high spenders or testers, as it is not widely visible. Screenshots shared by TechCrunch tipster David Tesler show prompts encouraging users to “recharge” by buying coins on the website to avoid in-app service fees.

Users who follow the link to tiktok.com can purchase coin packs using various payment methods, including Apple Pay or credit cards, with savings of around 25% compared to in-app purchases. The website offers packs ranging from 70 coins to 17,500 coins, with the option to enter a custom amount, unlike the limited options available within the app.

While Apple allows certain apps to link to external websites for account management, TikTok’s use of this feature may violate Apple’s rules, especially if it continues to offer in-app purchases through the App Store. Both TikTok and Apple have not commented on the situation, leaving the future of TikTok’s relationship with Apple uncertain amidst the current political climate surrounding the app.