Browser & OS extension stores
Apple App Store vs Google Play Store
Apple App Store and Google Play Store both compete in browser & os extension stores. Here is how they compare on the factors that decide where a developer should build — authentication, complexity, review, monetization, and merchant of record.
| Attribute | ||
|---|---|---|
| Vendor | Apple Inc. | Google LLC |
| Ecosystem | Browser & OS extension stores | Browser & OS extension stores |
| Category | Consumer | Consumer |
| Primary auth | None | None |
| Also supports | OAuth 2.0, JWT | OAuth 2.0, API key |
| Complexity | Advanced (L3) | Advanced (L3) |
| Security review | Required | Required |
| Integration types | Embedded app | Embedded app |
| Monetization | Free, Paid app, Usage-based, Revenue share | Free, Paid app, Usage-based, Revenue share |
| Onboarding fee | $99/year Apple Developer Program membership | $25 one-time developer registration |
| Commission | 30% standard; 15% under the Small Business Program and on year-two+ subscriptions | Historically 30% standard / 15% reduced; lower tiers rolling out in 2026 (verify current rates) |
| Merchant of Record | Apple is MoR for paid apps and in-app purchases | Google Play Billing is MoR for paid apps and in-app purchases |
| AI agents / bots | Not a focus | Not a focus |
| Example apps | Spotify, Instagram, 1Password | WhatsApp, Netflix, Duolingo |
| API rate limits | No marketplace-wide runtime rate limit; apps are governed by the iOS/macOS SDK APIs and any backend they call. | No marketplace-wide runtime rate limit on installed apps; governed by the Android SDK and any backend the app calls. |
| Links |
Which should you choose?
- Lower complexity: both at level 3/4.
- Security review: both require a formal review.
- AI agents: neither is AI-agent focused.