Apple is currently making a lot of money on the back of Pokemon GO
Pokémon GO is doing a great start and not even launched yet in all countries! Result, players are happy to enjoy a great free app and Nintendo is earning tons of dollars. A win-win strategy, which also benefits other top names.
We can not rewrite the story, shares of Nintendo are at their highest point since the release of Pokémon GO game, especially the views of its popularity. Only the application goes through the Apple Store, which means that Apple collects in passing a good bundle of money, especially with the (future) purchases by players.
According to a recent report by Laura Martin, Needham, Apple is expected to garner additional three billion dollars over the next two years. It's simple, Apple gives 30% of the money spent by players. For comparison, MarketWatch said that Candy Crush had bring back two billion to apple.
The irony of this story is that Apple could earn more than Nintendo. Simply, the application was developed in concert with Niantic, and Nintendo has "only" 32% of Pokémon GO. They do not own Pokémon rights, they just share with Game Freak and Creatures. In other words, this game is a blessing for their image and to attract potential investors, but not so much financially (to a lesser extent, of course they will earn money).
Apple needs to breathe a little, their financial health is good, however the value of their shares fell 24.5% on last year. Furthermore, 2016 should be the year when the iPhone sales will be down. Also, Ash and Pikachu thank you.
The application is also available for Android, Google shall not be outdone.