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Mobile Game Distribution Glossary: The DMA Era

Introduction​

The Digital Markets Act (DMA) has introduced new concepts in mobile game distribution and monetization. This glossary explains these terms and how Xsolla Mobile SDK supports developers in this evolving landscape.

As the industry adapts to regulatory changes, understanding new distribution methods and payment options is crucial. Xsolla Mobile SDK empowers developers to navigate this new ecosystem, providing compliant solutions that open up new monetization avenues.

Xsolla Mobile SDK supports the following key concepts:

Android / Google Play:​

  1. Side-loading on Android:
    • Install apps (APKs) directly from websites or third-party sources
    • Implement payments with 0% fees to Google
    • Retain full control over your app distribution and monetization
    • Xsolla Mobile SDK seamlessly integrates with side-loaded apps
  2. APK Marketing & Distribution:
    • Leverage partnerships with channels like Digital Turbine for wider reach and enable instant APK installation on Android devices
    • Tap into new user acquisition channels beyond Google Play and pave your own way
    • Xsolla is compatible with attribution tools for your APK distribution, ensuring you can continue optimizing your performance
  3. User Choice Billing for Google Play:
    • Integrate Xsolla Pay Station into Google Play apps in select countries
    • Offer alternative payment methods alongside Google's billing
    • 27% publisher-to-Google fee applies, but gain access to Xsolla's 700+ payment methods
    • Increase conversion rates with localized payment options

iOS / Apple App Store:​

  1. Alternative App Marketplaces on iOS:
    • Apple's term for alternative App Stores, available in EU markets
    • Implement Xsolla Pay Station for In-App Payments outside App Store (from 0% store fees for < 1M installs to limited fees by Apple)
    • Power your Marketplace wallet with top-up solution via Xsolla Pay Station
  2. Web Distribution on iOS:
    • Apple's term for side-loading on iOS via official publisher websites
    • Distribute your app directly to users from your website
    • Implement direct In-App Payments via Xsolla Pay Station without App Store fees (up to 1M installs per year, further fees apply from Apple's side)
  3. Notarization for iOS:
    • Light approval process by Apple for distribution outside of App Store
    • Ensures basic safety and integrity checks for your app
    • Xsolla Mobile SDK is compatible with notarized apps, maintaining security standards
  4. Alternative Payment Options on the App Store:
    • Integrate Xsolla Pay Station within App Store apps (with Apple's fees, limited regions) via Xsolla Mobile SDK
    • Offer users over 700+ payment methods across 200+ countries

Conclusion​

The mobile gaming landscape is rapidly changing due to regulations like the DMA and evolving platform policies. Xsolla Mobile SDK offers a comprehensive toolkit to navigate these changes, helping you maximize revenue and reach across all available channels.

We update this information regularly, with the latest update on: 2024-07-26. For the most current details, please consult your Business Development representative or Customer Success Manager.

By using Xsolla Mobile SDK, you're positioning your game to thrive in this dynamic environment, unlocking new revenue streams and innovative distribution channels.