What does it cost to publish an App to the App Stores?

So, you've built your dream app and are planning to release it on iOS and Android. Awesome! But yes, there's something you need to consider: The App Store Fees. Let's break down what you need to know about the fees associated with publishing apps on both platforms.

Getting Started: The Developer Accounts

Apple Developer Program (iOS)

To publish apps on the iOS App Store, you need to enroll in the Apple Developer Program. Here's what you need to know:

- Annual Fee: $99 USD
 - This fee is for an individual or a single company account. If you're part of an educational institution or a government organization, you might get a waiver or a discount.
- Enterprise Account: $299 USD per year
 - This is for organizations developing proprietary, in-house apps.

Google Play Console (Android)

For Android apps, you'll need a Google Play Developer account. Here's the lowdown:

- One-Time Registration Fee: $25 USD
 - Unlike Apple, Google only charges this once, and you're set for life. Well, at least for the life of your app developer career.

Publishing Your App

Once you’ve got your developer accounts sorted, there are some other fees and costs to consider - but they only occur when you actually make money with your app. Both platforms take a cut of your earnings from paid apps and in-app purchases, often referred to as "App Store Taxes." It's usually a 15%-30% commission fee, depending on different factors like: is it a subscription or a one time payment, or if you are in the Small Business Program.

App Store (iOS)

- App Review Fee: None
 - Apple doesn't charge for reviewing your app, but keep in mind their review process can take some while.
- In-App Purchases (IAP) & Subscriptions: Apple takes a 15%-30% commission.
 - For the first year, Apple charges 30% on IAPs and subscriptions. After a year, the rate drops to 15% for long-term subscriptions.
- Small Business Program: Businesses earning up to $1 million USD in proceeds per year are eligible and can apply. You only pay 15% on paid apps and in-app purchases.

Google Play Store (Android)

- App Review Fee: None
 - Google also doesn't charge for the review process, and their review times are generally quicker than Apple's.
- In-App Purchases (IAP) & Subscriptions: Google also takes a 15%-30% commission.
 - Like Apple, Google’s standard rate is 30%, which drops to 15% after a year for subscriptions.
- Small Business Program: All Businesses earning up to $1 million USD in revenue only pay 15% on this revenue in commision for paid apps and in-app purchases.

Free Apps: The Good News

If your app is free with no in-app purchases or subscriptions, you only need to pay the initial developer account fees. No ongoing commission fees to worry about! 🎉

Conclusion

Publishing an app comes with some cost. From the initial developer account fees to the ongoing commissions on sales, it's essential to keep this in mind. However, if you're going the free app route, you can minimize your expenses significantly. Just pay the developer account fees, and you're good to go! 🚀

Happy developing, and may your app top the charts! 📈✨

Feel free to drop any questions or share your app-publishing experiences with us via support@kula.app

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