It is a messy issue. Without the in app purchase fees, developers could (and would) give away the app and take all of the revenues. With the in app purchase f

It is a messy issue. Without the in app purchase fees, developers could (and would) give away the app and take all of the revenues. With the in app purchase fees, developers (rightfully) feel as though Apple is taking a cut for something they they did not sell. If apps sold for $40 or $80 each, Apple would have a much harder time justifying the commission on in app purchases. The motivation to do so would still be there, but the pressure from consumers may have more bearing on the rates (though I doubt they would eliminate them).