Apple forces Automattic to add paid services on iOS WordPress app to charge 30% tax

Even though Automattic has never sold any of its paid services via its iOS WordPress app, Apple has forced Automattic to its sell domain names and website hostings plans, with Apple to receive the mandatory 30% Apple tax for in-app purchases.

Earlier today, WordPress founder Matt Mullenweg accused Apple of not letting WordPress make updates to its app, unless it complied to Apple’s new orders.

“Heads up on why @WordPressiOS updates have been absent… we were locked by App Store. To be able to ship updates and bug fixes again we had to commit to support in-app purchases for .com plans. I know why this is problematic, open to suggestions. Allow others IAP? New name?,” says Mullenweg.

Heads up on why @WordPressiOS updates have been absent… we were locked by App Store. To be able to ship updates and bug fixes again we had to commit to support in-app purchases for .com plans. I know why this is problematic, open to suggestions. Allow others IAP? New name?

— Matt Mullenweg (@photomatt) August 21, 2020

I'm aware there are other apps with similar functionality to @WordPressiOS, and in the same market, that don't offer in-app purchase. My guess is they will get similar feedback soon so I'd encourage them to start making IAP plans.

— Matt Mullenweg (@photomatt) August 21, 2020

Automattic has thirty days to update its iOS app to include those purchasing options.

WordPress, known for making the most popular Content Management System, lets people create blogs or websites for free via WordPress.com. WordPress parent company Automattic also offers paid services to purchase domain names, website hosting plans and premium Jetpack services.

Why would Apple force Automattic to add in-app purchase to the iOS WordPress if Automattic never wanted to add those paid services for iPhone and iPad users?

Apple does not seem to be in financial problems as it became the first $2 trillion company in the world. It is also fighting against Epic Games due to the mandatory 30% tax it charges for in-app purchases.

[Source]: @Photomatt (Twitter): Heads up on why @WordPressiOS updates have been absent… we were locked by App Store.