In a remarkable demonstration of digital commerce growth, Apple’s App Store ecosystem facilitated approximately $1.3 trillion in billings and sales worldwide in 2024, according to a study by economists Professor Andrey Fradkin and Dr. Jessica Burley.

Key Highlights

• $1.3 Trillion in Sales: The App Store ecosystem supported an estimated $1.3 trillion in billings and sales across 2024.

• Developer Revenue: Over 90% of these sales were commission-free for developers, highlighting Apple’s support for developer profitability.

• U.S. Market Impact: In the United States alone, the App Store facilitated $406 billion in developer billings and sales in 2024.

Growth Drivers

The surge in sales is attributed to several factors:

• Digital Goods and Services: A significant portion of the revenue came from digital goods and services, including in-app purchases and subscriptions.

• Physical Goods and Services: The App Store also facilitated sales of physical goods and services, such as retail purchases and ride-hailing services.

• In-App Advertising: Developers leveraged in-app advertising to monetize their applications, contributing to the overall revenue.

Global Impact

The App Store’s influence extends globally, with significant contributions from various regions:

• China: Accounting for a substantial portion of the sales, China’s market continues to be a major player in the App Store ecosystem.

• Europe: European countries, including the UK and Germany, have shown robust growth in App Store sales.

• Emerging Markets: Regions like Southeast Asia and Latin America are experiencing rapid growth in App Store usage and sales.

Future Outlook

With the App Store’s continuous expansion and the increasing reliance on digital platforms, Apple’s ecosystem is poised for sustained growth. The company’s commitment to providing developers with tools and resources ensures that the App Store remains a lucrative platform for innovation and commerce.