Apple's "30% Tax" Sparks Controversy: Tencent and ByteDance "Find a Workaround," Users Caught in the Middle

Apple's "30% Tax" Sparks Controversy: Tencent and ByteDance "Find a Workaround," Users Caught in the MiddleApple recently issued a notice to Tencent and ByteDance demanding a 30% commission on in-app purchases, sparking a storm of controversy. The news ignited debate among users, with diverse opinions emerging

Apple's "30% Tax" Sparks Controversy: Tencent and ByteDance "Find a Workaround," Users Caught in the Middle

Apple recently issued a notice to Tencent and ByteDance demanding a 30% commission on in-app purchases, sparking a storm of controversy. The news ignited debate among users, with diverse opinions emerging.

Apple allegedly requires Tencent and ByteDance to pay a 30% commission on in-app purchases, a cost ultimately borne by users. Tencent and ByteDance expressed their dissatisfaction, deeming Apple's terms excessively domineering and unreasonable. As a result, both companies began exploring "alternative paths," collaborating with developers of smaller games and apps to bypass the Apple Pay system, creating content directly and avoiding the 30% commission.

Apple responded strongly, demanding Tencent and ByteDance close these loopholes, prohibiting users from downloading games and apps through external payment systems. Rumors even circulated of Apple potentially refusing to update WeChat and Douyin, effectively placing users in a dilemma, forcing them to choose between Apple and these two popular applications.

This incident has sparked widespread discussions, with many users arguing that Apple users consistently bear an extra 30% cost compared to Android users. While daily expenses like ride-hailing and food delivery are unaffected, game top-ups and other spending are undoubtedly affected by the "Apple tax." Some even pointed out that Apple phones lag behind Android phones in certain functionalities, for example, users need to watch longer videos on Apple phones compared to Android phones for the same amount of time.

However, some argue that Apple phones possess unique advantages, such as superior camera quality, a smooth operating system, and the absence of unnecessary pop-ups and advertisements. Some even express that despite certain shortcomings, they would still choose to purchase Apple phones.

This event's focal point lies in Apple's "30% tax" on in-app purchases and Tencent and ByteDance's "alternative path" responses. This struggle not only involves the battle for interests between Apple and these two internet giants but also raises concerns regarding user rights and choices.

On one hand, Apple, as the platform provider, needs to maintain its ecosystem's stability and profitability, making the in-app purchase commission justifiable. On the other hand, Tencent and ByteDance, as content providers, must also safeguard their interests, avoiding excessive reliance on platforms and losing autonomy. Ultimately, the user experience and choice remain the most crucial metrics for evaluation.

This "battle" continues, and its final outcome remains to be seen. However, it's certain that this struggle will have a profound impact on the future landscape of the mobile internet, making it worthy of continued attention.

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