In a groundbreaking move that could reshape mobile game monetization, Xsolla, a leading video game commerce platform, has unveiled the Xsolla Buy Button for Mobile Games, a direct-to-consumer payment solution designed to help developers maximize their revenue and reduce dependency on traditional app store payment systems.
A Major Legal Shift Fuels New Opportunities
The launch comes shortly after a pivotal U.S. court ruling on April 30, 2025, which prohibited Apple from restricting external payment links or charging commissions on third-party storefronts in the U.S. This legal development opens new doors for mobile game developers, allowing them to integrate external payment options without interference from platform providers.
What is the Xsolla Buy Button?
The Xsolla Buy Button allows mobile game developers to embed direct payment links inside their games. These links lead players to a seamless, browser-based checkout powered by Xsolla Web Shop and Xsolla Pay Station, enabling quick and secure purchases of virtual goods, currencies, and exclusive bundles — all while bypassing up to 30% platform fees typically charged by app stores.
Key Features and Advantages
-
Zero Platform Commission: Developers can reclaim up to 30% of their revenue, incurring only standard payment processing fees.
-
Quick Implementation: Under the new court ruling, developers can integrate external payment links in their apps almost immediately, with no platform restrictions.
-
Frictionless Purchase Experience: Players can buy items via one-tap browser checkouts directly from in-game offers, minimizing clicks and maximizing convenience.
-
Global Tax Compliance Made Simple: Xsolla acts as the Merchant of Record, managing tax calculations, collections, and remittance, eliminating the need for third-party tax services.
-
Enhanced Player Engagement: Loyalty programs, personalized offers, prepaid gift cards, and parental controls can now be easily integrated to boost player retention.
-
LiveOps Synchronization: Developers can align external promotions with in-game events and seasonal content to deliver more relevant and timely offers.
-
Parental Controls and Global Gift Cards: Secure, family-friendly features like parental controls and worldwide gift card compatibility are built-in.
-
Multi-Channel Commerce: Extend payment access to web platforms, Discord, Telegram, and other popular community spaces.
A New Era for Mobile Game Monetization
Chris Hewish, Chief Strategy Officer at Xsolla, emphasized the significance of this launch:
“This court decision is a turning point for mobile game developers in the U.S. and globally. The Buy Button is now available through the Xsolla Web Shop. Developers can sign up via the Xsolla Publisher Account and start generating links in just minutes without needing custom code.”
This rollout reflects Xsolla’s ongoing mission to deliver flexible, developer-centric commerce solutions that empower game creators to scale their businesses, retain more of their revenue, and build stronger, more direct relationships with their player communities.
Conclusion
The Xsolla Buy Button is a game changer for the mobile gaming industry, offering developers greater control over monetization, increased player engagement, and a pathway to sustainable, long-term growth in a post-platform-fee era.
