Tencent (00700) responds to Apple Inc. (AAPL.US) lowering the commission rate for Chinese app store, bringing excitement to the industry.

Apple Inc. (AAPL.US) will reduce the commission rate for mobile and tablet operating systems in the App Store in China. In response, Tencent (00700) officially announced: "We have noticed that, under the strong promotion by regulatory authorities, Apple Inc. has adjusted the commission policy for the App Store in China, which has brought excitement to the industry. This change reflects a response to and respect for the voices of Chinese users and developers, and is a positive signal for promoting the healthy development of the digital ecosystem. For Tencent and all developers, we will usher in a more open and win-win platform environment, conducive to stimulating innovative vitality and promoting the continued prosperity of the technology application ecosystem. Thanks to this, we will continue to work with partners from all parties to provide users with higher quality products and services." According to the official Apple Inc. developer website, the standard commission rate for in-app purchases and paid apps in the Apple Inc. App Store will change from the current 30% to 25%. For developers eligible under the Apple Inc. Small Business Program and the Mini Apps Partner Program, the commission rate for in-app purchases and automatic renewal subscription after the first year will change from the current 15% to 12%. This commission rate adjustment will take effect from March 15, 2026, without the need for developers to sign new terms. Apple Inc. stated that they are committed to maintaining fair and transparent terms for all developers, and will always provide App Store rates for developers distributing apps in China that are not higher than the overall market rate, and are competitive.