You will have to pay more for Apple App Store, in-app purchases in India

Apple has increased the App Store prices in India as well as five other countries. The new rates will be applicable in Brazil, Colombia, Indonesia, Russia, and South Africa. The new prices will come into effect for apps and in-app purchases made through the App Store in the next few days. The new pricing will also be shown in the Pricing and Availability section of My Apps through the Apple Developer portal once the update comes in place, the company said. 

The information shared on Apple Developer website says that the increase in the App Store prices will reflect the equalisation levy of two percent in addition to the existing goods and services tax of 18 percent specifically in the case of India. The equalisation levy was included in the Finance Act, 2016, and is in effect since April 1, 2020. It is aimed at certain non-resident businesses. 

“When taxes or foreign exchange rates change, we sometimes need to update prices on the App Store,” the company said in the announcement. 

Developers have been provided with the updated price tier charts to show the increase in pricing for their particular apps. After the change, the App Store will now be charged at a minimum of Rs 89. This is up from the earlier minimum charge of Rs 80. 

“You can change the price of your apps and in-app purchases (including auto-renewable subscriptions) at any time in App Store Connect. If you offer subscriptions, you can choose to preserve prices for existing subscribers,” the company said. 

However, the company has not notified the exact date from when the new rates will be applicable for end users.