India's App Store ecosystem powers Rs 44,447 crores in developer sales, driving global growth

TOI Tech Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Apr 28, 2025, 07:45 IST

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A new study by IIM Ahmedabad reveals the App Store ecosystem in India generated Rs 44,447 crores in developer billings and sales in 2024. Indian developers' global earnings have tripled in five years, with 80% of earnings coming from outside India. Apple's CEO Tim Cook highlights the App Store's role as an economic engine, supporting developers and fostering innovation.

India's App Store ecosystem powers Rs 44,447 crores in developer sales, driving global growth

A new study conducted by Professor Viswanath Pingali from IIM Ahmedabad reveals that the App Store ecosystem in India generated Rs 44,447 crores ($5.31 billion) in developer billings and sales in 2024, with more than 94 percent of earnings accruing solely to developers. Apple published the study, highlighting the vast business opportunities and global reach provided by the App Store.

App Store ecosystem in India: Key findings

Indian developers’ global earnings have tripled over the past five years.
In 2024, developers earned ₹38,906 crores ($4.65 billion) from physical goods and services, ₹3,014 crores ($352.9 million) from in-app advertising, and ₹2,527 crores ($302 million) from digital goods and services.
80 percent of India-based developers’ earnings came from users outside the country, demonstrating their global impact.

What Apple CEO Tim Cook has to say

Apple CEO Tim Cook celebrated the App Store’s role as an economic engine, describing it as a platform enabling developers to enrich lives through their innovative apps.
"The App Store has been an economic miracle for developers in India and all around the world, and we’re thrilled to support their work,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO. “This study underlines the power of India’s incredibly vibrant app economy. And we’re committed to keep investing in the success of developers of all sizes as they build apps that make an important impact and enrich people’s lives.”

Developer success stories

Indian app creators have thrived on the App Store, with increased downloads and earnings from domestic and international audiences. Developers have built apps across categories like gaming, health, lifestyle, and quick commerce. Initiatives like the App Store Small Business Program and resources at the Apple Developer Center in Bengaluru further empower developers to create impactful apps.
Small developers, in particular, have been supported by Apple’s ecosystem. The total App Store earnings of small developers increased by 74 percent between 2021 and 2024. Initiatives like the App Store Small Business Program, designed to support small developers, provide a reduced commission rate for these developers.
The study underscores Apple’s commitment to fostering innovation and supporting developers in India’s vibrant and growing app economy.

About the Author

TOI Tech Desk

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