Roblox wants to reward you for evading app store fees

Roblox is rewarding users who purchase its currency, Robux, on platforms outside of iOS, Android, and consoles. People who buy Robux via gift cards, computers, and the web will get up to 25% more Robux when compared to those who purchase it using other platforms. The change — which Roblox developers praised online — comes as a slight ding to platforms like the Apple App Store since it disincentivizes purchases mediated by such app stores.

The changes were announced via a Roblox staff member on the platform’s developer forum. Prior to the change, those who purchased $9.99 worth of currency would receive 800 Robux to spend in the platform. Now, those who make the same purchase using a computers web, and gift card will get 1000 Robux. (If you use the Roblox app on an iPhone or iPad to make buy, you’ll still just get 800 Robux.)

The price changes will go into effect globally for all Roblox users on Nov. 26. According to a short FAQ, those who “redeem their gift cards, including those purchased before today, on computer or web will get up to 25% more Robux to spend.”

The developer post says the company made the change because the Roblox team is, “always looking for opportunities to share more with our community, on all platforms.” However, it’s possible this change was implemented to allow Roblox to evade app store fees. The Apple App Store charges commissions and fees when software contains in-game purchases. A 2023 report citing data from Roblox, Statista, and Finbold, stated that app store fees account for 23.3% of each dollar spent in Roblox. These costs can really add up when we’re talking about a platform, that by its own estimates, has more than 88.9 million daily active users.

Regardless, of how it’ll benefit the larger Roblox, the conclusion is clear: It’s better and cheaper to buy Robux outside the phone and console apps now. So, if you’re a parent considering purchasing Robux for the upcoming holiday season, definitely pick up a few gift cards at Target or just use a computer to do the purchase.