The Digital Markets Act (DMA) is more than just a regulation – it's a paradigm shift in the mobile gaming industry. As it reshapes the landscape, particularly within the European Union, game developers and publishers are gaining unprecedented opportunities for monetization and user engagement. At Xsolla, we're at the forefront of this revolution, equipping you with the tools and knowledge to thrive in this new era. We’re on the cusp of a transformative era in mobile gaming. The Digital Markets Act (DMA) and the forthcoming changes to platform rules are not just regulatory shifts, they represent a realignment of the mobile gaming ecosystem. This presents a unique opportunity to reshape the way we monetize mobile games. At Xsolla, we've always been at the forefront of innovation in video game commerce. Just as we pioneered and brought web shops to hundreds of games, revolutionizing direct-to-consumer relationships, we’re now poised to lead the charge in this new age of mobile. Our mission? To empower you, our partners, to navigate and thrive in this evolving landscape. We know these changes bring both excitement and uncertainty. The waters of platform policies can be murky, with complex interdependencies and sometimes contradictory messages from stakeholders. This is where Xsolla's expertise becomes invaluable. We’re committed to ensuring that your journey is streamlined, compliant, and optimized for success. Our team has been actively developing solutions that are not just reactive to these changes but proactive in seizing the opportunities they present. From enabling seamless side-loading on Android to facilitating alternative payment methods on iOS, we're building tools that will allow you to expand your reach, increase your revenue, and build stronger relationships with your players. As we move forward together, remember that Xsolla is more than just a service provider—we’re your partner in innovation. We’ll be there every step of the way to provide guidance, support, and cutting-edge solutions that ensure you're not just adapting to the new mobile gaming landscape but leading it. The DMA is ushering in a new golden age of opportunity in mobile gaming. Breaking long-standing barriers and fostering a more open ecosystem creates a landscape ripe for innovation and growth. With Xsolla's comprehensive suite of tools and our deep understanding of this evolving market, our mission is to help you navigate and thrive in these changes. Whether you want to explore new distribution channels, implement innovative payment methods, or create a truly cross-platform gaming experience, Xsolla is your partner in this exciting new era. Our team of experts is ready to guide you through every step of this transition, helping you optimize your strategy and maximize your success in the post-DMA world.

David Stelzer, President, Xsolla

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The Android ecosystem, reimagined

Side-loading freedom Side-loading has always been globally available on Android. However, upcoming changes will improve the on-device installation flow for end-users, making it even more optimized.

• Direct distribution. Install your games straight from your website or third-party platforms, bypassing Google Play entirely.
• Zero Google fees. Implement payments without the traditional 30% Google Play fee, significantly boosting your profit margins.
• Complete control. Retain full authority over your app's distribution, pricing, and monetization strategies.
• Xsolla integration. Our Mobile SDK seamlessly integrates with side-loaded apps, providing a smooth user experience and robust payment processing.

APK marketing and distribution APK marketing and distribution is evolving rapidly, offering game developers and publishers innovative ways to expand their reach and optimize user acquisition.

• Expanded reach. Partner with channels like Digital Turbine and Applovin to enable instant APK installation on Android devices, tapping into new user acquisition streams.
• Beyond Google Play. Explore innovative distribution methods, from carrier partnerships to alternative app stores.
• Performance tracking. Xsolla's compatibility with attribution tools ensures you can continue optimizing your user acquisition and engagement strategies.
• Custom campaigns. Design unique marketing initiatives tailored to your game and target audience and implement them through any ad network to Xsolla Site Builder-powered destinations, such as Xsolla Web Shops, which provides APK distribution.

User choice billing for Google Play

• Hybrid model. Integrate Xsolla Pay Station alongside Google's billing in select countries, offering users more payment choices.
• Vast payment network. While a 27% fee to Google still applies, you can gain access to Xsolla's 700+ payment methods, increasing your monetization options.
• Local optimization. Offer region-specific payment methods, improving user experience and conversion rates in different markets.
• Seamless integration. Our SDK ensures a smooth expansion from Google's payment systems to Xsolla's.

iOS: A new frontier of opportunities

App marketplaces on iOS Navigating the app marketplace landscape on iOS offers new avenues for growth and user engagement. Xsolla can help maximize your presence and streamline operations:

• Multiple storefronts. Distribute your app through various iOS app stores in EU markets, expanding your reach.
• Unified payments. Xsolla Mobile SDK supports transactions across different iOS marketplaces via Xsolla Pay Station.
• Wallet solutions. Implement top-up systems and virtual wallets powered by Xsolla Pay Station, enhancing user engagement and monetization in your App Marketplace.

Web distribution on iOS With Xsolla’s web distribution options for iOS, you gain flexibility and control over how you reach and engage your users.

• Direct-to-consumer. Distribute your iOS app directly from your website, building a stronger relationship with your user base.
• Fee-free payments. Implement in-app payments via Xsolla Pay Station without App Store fees for up to 1 million EU installs annually. Further installs are subject to additional fees per Apple’s policies.
• Web-to-app synergy. Create a seamless commerce experience between your web presence (Web Shop) and iOS app, and be free to link out from the app back to your Web Shop for a unique offer selection.

Notarization for iOS We can make your process more efficient and secure, ensuring your app meets all necessary standards while maintaining flexibility.

• Streamlined process. Navigate Apple's light approval process for out-of-store distribution with ease.
• Security compliance. Ensure your app’s monetization meets Apple's requirements.
• Xsolla compatibility. Our Mobile SDK is compatible with notarized apps, maintaining high-security standards while offering flexible monetization options.

Alternative payments for iOS There are new ways to expand your reach and payment options. Here’s how Xsolla can enhance your in-app payment experience and broaden your global market access:

• In-app store flexibility. Integrate Xsolla Pay Station within App Store apps in supported regions, offering more payment options even within Apple's ecosystem.
• Global coverage. Offer over 700 payment methods across 200 countries, genuinely globalizing your app's monetization.

Xsolla's comprehensive ecosystem

Xsolla’s web shop integration offers a comprehensive monetization solution for game developers and publishers. By unifying mobile and web platforms, web shops allow seamless purchasing experiences, exclusive promotions, and reduced platform fees. Xsolla’s solutions include advanced analytics and fraud protection to safeguard revenue, while global tax compliance tools ensure legal adherence. Additionally, the platform provides marketing tools like referral programs and influencer partnerships to boost user acquisition and engagement.

Seize new opportunities in the DMA age with Xsolla

The future of mobile gaming is here, and it's more open, competitive, and exciting than ever before. Are you ready to take advantage of these new opportunities? Contact the Xsolla team today and let's shape the future of mobile gaming together. Stay tuned to our blog for ongoing updates and insights as we continue to navigate and define the DMA-shaped landscape of mobile gaming. The revolution is just beginning, and with Xsolla, you're already ahead of the game.