The Delta gaming emulator has made a bold move by tripling the prices of its in-app purchase options, effectively encouraging users to sign up for its Patreon-exclusive membership perks instead. This strategic decision is a direct response to Apple's External Purchase Link Entitlement, introduced in January, which allows developers to link to outside payment platforms in exchange for a reduced 27 percent cut of sales.

Developer Riley Testut has taken advantage of this new policy by adding a link to sign up for Patreon-exclusive membership perks directly within the iOS app in Apple's US App Store. This update both embraces and protests the External Purchase Link Entitlement, which was introduced following rulings in the Epic vs Apple lawsuit that found Apple had acted anticompetitively by preventing developers from telling users about payment methods that bypassed its own payment system.

The pricing disparity between the in-app purchase options and the Patreon tiers is striking. The $3, $5, and $10 monthly memberships on Patreon, which provide additional benefits like iPad and SEGA Genesis support, and private Discord access depending on the subscription tier, are listed in the iOS app at $10, $15, and $30, respectively. This "do not buy sale" approach is a deliberate attempt to discourage users from using Apple's in-app purchase system.

According to Testut, Delta is likely the first app to utilize the External Purchase Link Entitlement. The developer's motivation behind this move is to promote the use of Patreon, which offers more flexibility and convenience for creators like Testut. "We really don't want people to use in-app purchase," Testut told The Verge. "We've been using Patreon for years, and it allows us to do things Apple's IAP system can't — such as issuing refunds and handling customer support — making it much more convenient for creators like us."

This development has significant implications for the gaming and app development communities. By taking a stand against Apple's in-app purchase system, Delta emulator is paving the way for other developers to explore alternative payment options. The "do not buy sale" approach may inspire other creators to rethink their revenue strategies and challenge Apple's dominance in the app ecosystem.

As the tech industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how this move affects the relationship between Apple and developers. Will other apps follow Delta's lead, or will they find alternative ways to navigate the complex landscape of in-app purchases and external payment platforms? One thing is certain – the Delta emulator's bold move has sparked a crucial conversation about the future of app monetization.