How do you make money on iOS and Android apps?

1 In-app purchases

In-app purchases are one of the most popular ways to make money from mobile apps, especially for games, entertainment, and productivity apps. In-app purchases allow users to buy extra features, content, or services within the app, such as coins, gems, subscriptions, or premium access. To implement in-app purchases, you need to use the respective platforms' APIs and follow their guidelines and policies. You also need to provide clear and transparent information about the pricing, terms, and benefits of your in-app purchases.

2 In-app advertising

In-app advertising is another common way to make money from mobile apps, especially for free or freemium apps. In-app advertising allows you to display ads from third-party networks or advertisers within your app, such as banners, interstitials, rewarded videos, or native ads. To implement in-app advertising, you need to integrate the relevant SDKs and ad networks into your app, and optimize the placement, frequency, and quality of your ads. You also need to comply with the platforms' rules and regulations regarding user privacy and consent.

3 Paid apps

Paid apps are apps that require users to pay a one-time fee to download and install them from the app stores. Paid apps are usually more suitable for niche or high-quality apps that offer unique or valuable features, content, or services. To make money from paid apps, you need to set a reasonable and competitive price for your app, and provide a compelling description, screenshots, and reviews that showcase its benefits and value proposition. You also need to consider the platforms' commission rates and payment methods.

4 Sponsorships and partnerships

Sponsorships and partnerships are ways to make money from mobile apps by collaborating with other brands, organizations, or influencers that share your target audience or goals. Sponsorships and partnerships can take various forms, such as co-branding, cross-promotion, content integration, or revenue sharing. To make money from sponsorships and partnerships, you need to find and contact potential partners that align with your app's vision, mission, and values, and negotiate a mutually beneficial agreement that specifies the terms, expectations, and outcomes.

5 App merchandising

App merchandising is a way to make money from mobile apps by selling physical or digital products related to your app's theme, characters, or features. App merchandising can include items such as t-shirts, mugs, stickers, posters, ebooks, or courses. To make money from app merchandising, you need to create and design your products, and find a platform or service that handles the production, distribution, and payment of your products. You also need to market and promote your products to your app's users and fans.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?