7 Best Ad Network for iOS Games

Monetizing iOS games is about more than just revenue, it's about finding ad networks that offer strong audience engagement and precise targeting. Some networks give access to over 1 billion devices globally, providing massive reach. Real-time bidding technology ensures high competition for ad space, improving both demand and user engagement. For instance, top networks serving over 90,000 publishers allow access to more than 260 demand-side platforms, ensuring advertisers compete for every impression, boosting user interaction​. This dynamic environment helps developers reach targeted audiences, delivering ads that are more relevant, leading to higher engagement and retention rates. The right ad strategy can elevate not just revenue but overall in-game user experience. In this article, we’ll explore how choosing the right ad network for iOS games can drive engagement, improve user experience, and maximize your monetization strategy.

7 Best Ad Network for iOS Games

1. AdMob by Google

AdMob is one of the best ad networks for iOS games, offering a comprehensive solution for mobile game developers and publishers looking to maximize their revenue. With its integration with Google’s ad ecosystem, AdMob serves as a powerful tool for iOS game monetization networks, providing access to a massive inventory of ads. It supports ad networks for iPhone games with a variety of ad formats, including rewarded ads and interstitials, which are essential for engaging game players without disrupting their experience. Backed by cutting-edge mediation technology, AdMob optimizes ad delivery to ensure the best mobile ad networks for iOS can deliver the highest CPMs for developers. In fact, AdMob is trusted by over 1 million apps, making it a top choice for iOS game developers and publishers.

Key Facts:

• Product Information: AdMob is an ad network by Google that enables iOS and Android game developers to monetize their apps through in-app ads, with access to over 1 million advertisers worldwide.
• Ad Formats: It offers multiple ad formats, including rewarded video ads, interstitials, native, and banner ads, helping iOS game publishers engage users without affecting gameplay.
• CPM Rates: The CPM rates on AdMob can vary significantly based on region and format, with rates averaging around $1 to $18 for iOS games, depending on factors like geography and user engagement.
• Publisher Eligibility: To join AdMob, publishers need to comply with Google's policies, maintain a Google account, and have a working app available on the App Store.
• Payment Info: AdMob offers monthly payments with a minimum threshold of $100, and payments can be received through bank transfers or checks.

Why AdMob for iOS Games?

AdMob is ideal for iOS game developers who want access to a comprehensive ad network with superior fill rates and excellent monetization capabilities. Its powerful analytics tools make it one of the best ad networks for iOS games, giving developers granular control over ad performance.

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2. Unity Ads

Unity Ads is one of the best ad networks for iOS games, offering a powerful platform for mobile game developers and publishers looking to maximize revenue. Known for its seamless integration with iOS, Unity Ads serves a wide range of ad formats customized for mobile gaming, including rewarded video ads, interstitials, and banners. With its vast network of advertisers, it ensures higher CPMs and excellent fill rates, making it one of the top ad networks for iOS game developers. Unity Ads also boasts impressive user engagement rates, giving publishers reliable tools to boost iOS game monetization. It's a favorite among game developers looking for ad networks for iPhone games, providing superior options for mobile advertising.

Key Facts:

• Product Information: Unity Ads specializes in mobile game advertising, with a strong focus on rewarded video ads, making it a top choice for iOS game ad networks.
• Ad Formats: Unity Ads offers various ad formats, including rewarded videos, interstitial ads, banners, and playable ads, ensuring diverse monetization options for publishers.
• CPM Rates: Unity Ads provides competitive CPM rates, with average rates ranging from $6 to $12 for iOS games, depending on the region and ad format.
• Publisher Eligibility: Publishers must use Unity to build their games or integrate the Unity SDK to be eligible for Unity Ads, making it ideal for mobile game developers.
• Payment Info: Payments are made on a net 30 basis, with a minimum payout threshold of $100, supporting PayPal, wire transfer, and other methods.

Why Unity Ads for iOS Games?

Unity Ads is perfect for developers building their games with the Unity engine. Its focus on rewarded video ads ensures an optimal balance between monetization and user experience, making it one of the top ad networks for iOS game developers.

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3. IronSource

IronSource is a leading ad network specializing in iOS game monetization, offering advanced solutions for mobile game developers and publishers. Known for its high-performing ad formats like rewarded video and interactive ads, IronSource enables iOS game publishers to effectively monetize their apps. With its seamless integration across platforms, IronSource has gained traction as one of the best ad networks for iOS games. Developers benefit from competitive CPM rates and an extensive reach in the gaming sector. IronSource has been widely adopted by top iOS game developers due to its innovative approach, helping them maximize revenue through top iOS game ad networks. IronSource powers over 3 billion app downloads and has become a preferred choice in mobile advertising for iOS games.

Key Facts:

• Product Information: IronSource is widely recognized for its innovative monetization solutions, offering ad formats like rewarded video, interstitials, and offerwalls, specifically optimized for iOS game ad networks.
• Ad Formats: Developers can choose from various ad types such as video ads, playable ads, and banners, providing immersive experiences that align with best mobile ad networks for iOS.
• CPM Rates: IronSource offers competitive CPM rates, with iOS games reportedly seeing rates from $10 to $20 per 1,000 impressions for premium markets like the U.S. and Europe, making it one of the best ad networks for mobile games.
• Publisher Eligibility: IronSource supports both indie developers and large-scale game publishers, with a flexible platform that ensures ease of integration for iOS game monetization networks.
• Payment Info: Payments are typically made on a net 60 basis, and developers must meet a $500 threshold to withdraw, making IronSource suitable for ad networks for iOS game publishers looking to scale effectively.

Why ironSource for iOS Games?

For developers looking for flexibility and top ad networks for iOS games with powerful mediation capabilities, ironSource is a great option. It ensures optimal ad delivery while offering a wide variety of monetization formats.

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4. Setupad

Setupad is a leading ad monetization platform that provides iOS game developers with top-tier solutions to maximize their ad revenue. Specializing in programmatic advertising, Setupad connects publishers with premium demand sources, making it one of the best ad networks for mobile games, including iOS games. With a focus on high CPM rates and advanced header bidding technology, Setupad helps iOS game publishers increase their fill rates and eCPMs across multiple ad formats. Whether you are looking for the best mobile ad networks for iOS or top ad networks for iOS game developers, Setupad stands out by offering comprehensive monetization tools and access to global ad demand.

Key Facts:

• Product Information: Setupad offers a robust programmatic advertising platform with solutions tailored for iOS game monetization, connecting game publishers with premium global advertisers.
• Ad Formats: Supports multiple ad formats, including video ads, banner ads, and interstitials, providing flexibility for iOS game publishers.
• CPM Rates: Average CPM rates for iOS games on Setupad can reach $5 to $15, depending on the location and ad format.
• Publisher Eligibility: Publishers with more than 100,000 monthly pageviews are eligible to join Setupad's network, making it accessible to both medium and large-scale game developers.
• Payment Info: Setupad offers monthly payments, with a minimum payout threshold of €100, and supports multiple payment options like PayPal and bank transfers.

Why Setupad for iOS Game Developers:

Setupad allows iOS game developers to maximize their revenue by connecting to a wide range of premium advertisers. Thanks to its advanced header bidding technology, Setupad ensures that every impression gets the best possible value. Additionally, the platform offers tools to optimize ad placements and formats, enabling game developers to provide a smooth and non-intrusive experience for players.

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5. AppLovin

AppLovin is one of the best ad networks for iOS games, offering a robust platform for developers to monetize their mobile apps effectively. As a leader in mobile advertising, AppLovin is known for its powerful ad mediation and user acquisition solutions, making it a top ad network for iOS game developers and publishers. With an extensive reach across millions of daily active users, AppLovin’s platform enables efficient iOS game monetization by delivering relevant ads to targeted audiences. According to recent data, AppLovin generated approximately $3.28 billion in revenue in 2023, with a significant year-over-year growth rate of 16.5%. By mid-2024, AppLovin's revenue surged to $3.96 billion, solidifying its position as a go-to network for iOS game publishers. Developers looking for the best ad networks for iOS games will find AppLovin’s sophisticated machine learning algorithms and diverse ad formats ideal for maximizing their game’s revenue potential​.

Key Facts:

• Product Information: AppLovin provides a full-stack mobile advertising platform, supporting ad mediation and monetization solutions tailored for iOS game developers.
• Ad Formats: The network offers a variety of ad formats, including interstitials, video ads, rewarded ads, and banners, designed to fit seamlessly into iOS games.
• CPM Rates: AppLovin's CPM rates for iOS games are competitive, ranging from $3 to $15 depending on the ad format and user geography, providing solid revenue for publishers.
• Publisher Eligibility: To join AppLovin’s network, iOS game developers must have a live game with a strong user base and meet AppLovin’s quality standards for app content.
• Payment Info: AppLovin pays developers on a net-30 basis, with a minimum payout threshold of $20, offering flexible payment methods including PayPal, wire transfer, and ACH.

Why AppLovin for iOS Games?

AppLovin is ideal for developers seeking a data-driven, machine-learning-based ad network that prioritizes user acquisition and monetization. It’s one of the top ad networks for iOS game developers who want to optimize ad revenue with cutting-edge technology.

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6. Vungle

Vungle is widely recognized as one of the best ad networks for iOS games, offering game developers and publishers a seamless way to monetize their apps. As a leading platform for in-app video ads, Vungle specializes in driving user acquisition and engagement through its dynamic ad formats tailored for mobile games. With over 4 billion unique devices reached globally, Vungle ensures that iOS game developers can maximize revenue while providing a smooth ad experience for users. Known for its superior ad performance, Vungle is particularly favored among iOS game publishers looking for effective mobile advertising solutions.

Key Facts:

• Product Information: Vungle offers video and playable ads, optimized for iOS games, enabling high engagement and user interaction.
• Ad Formats: The platform supports various ad formats, including rewarded video ads and interactive end cards, catering to iOS game monetization needs.
• CPM Rates: Vungle provides competitive CPM rates, with iOS game publishers reportedly earning between $5 to $20 per 1,000 impressions, depending on region and game type.
• Publisher Eligibility: To join Vungle, publishers need to have an iOS game or app with significant user engagement. The platform supports global publishers, ensuring wide access for iOS game developers.
• Payment Info: Vungle follows a net-60 payment schedule, with publishers being paid once they reach a minimum threshold of $100. Payments can be made via PayPal or wire transfer, ensuring flexible options for iOS game publishers.

Why Vungle for iOS Games?

Vungle is a solid choice for iOS game developers who want to integrate high-quality video ads into their games without compromising on user experience. Its focus on rewarded video ads makes it one of the best ad networks for iPhone games.

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7. PubScale

PubScale is emerging as one of the best ad networks for iOS games, offering top-tier solutions for game developers looking to maximize revenue. Known for its robust technology, PubScale supports a variety of ad formats like rewarded video, interstitials, and native ads, which are tailored to enhance user experience while driving higher engagement. With iOS gaming ad revenue expected to reach $20.9 billion by 2025, PubScale provides scalable and efficient monetization tools to game publishers. Its reputation as one of the top ad networks for iOS game developers makes it a go-to platform for those seeking iOS game monetization networks and seamless integration with mobile advertising for iOS games.

Key Facts:

• Product Information: PubScale specializes in iOS game monetization and offers seamless SDK integration, making it a preferred ad network for iOS game publishers.
• Ad Formats: It supports multiple ad formats such as rewarded videos, interstitials, banner ads, and more optimized for higher click-through rates and user retention.
• CPM Rates: PubScale boasts competitive CPM rates, with iOS game ads generating an average CPM of $5 to $12 depending on user engagement and region.
• Publisher Eligibility: PubScale requires a minimum of 10,000 monthly active users, making it accessible for indie developers and larger gaming studios alike.
• Payment Info: Publishers are paid on a Net 30 basis, with a minimum payout threshold of $100, and payments are made via PayPal, bank transfer, or wire transfer

Why PubScale for iOS Game Developers:

PubScale is a great choice for iOS game developers looking to maximize their app’s revenue. It offers competitive eCPM rates, diverse ad formats, and seamless integration. Plus, its analytics help you optimize your ad strategy for better performance.

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Ad Formats Ideal for iOS Games

With mobile gaming booming, accounting for over 57% of global gaming revenue, the right ad formats can elevate your game while providing a seamless experience for players. Choosing engaging and non-intrusive ads is crucial for maximizing monetization without disrupting gameplay. Here are five ad formats that are ideal in the iOS gaming landscape:

• Rewarded Video Ads
  Rewarded video ads are a win-win for both developers and players. By offering in-game rewards for watching a short video, these ads achieve impressive engagement rates of up to 86% among mobile gamers. Players appreciate the opportunity to earn rewards while enjoying content, which boosts player retention and enhances overall game satisfaction. For advertisers, this format leads to higher conversion rates and better brand perception.
• Playable Ads
  Playable ads let users dive into a mini-game experience before downloading the full version. This immersive format boasts conversion rates as high as 7%, creating a direct connection between gameplay and advertising. By allowing potential players to experience the fun firsthand, developers increase their chances of installs while providing a unique and engaging ad experience that captivates users.
• Banner Ads
  While simple, banner ads continue to play a vital role in mobile advertising. Typically placed at the top or bottom of the screen, they provide constant visibility without being overly disruptive. Their unobtrusive nature allows for a more pleasant gaming experience, and their flexible pricing models make them an appealing choice for advertisers looking to reach audiences effectively. With millions of players globally, the potential for impressions is immense.
• Interstitial Ads
  Full-screen interstitial ads appear during natural game pauses, delivering high-impact content that grabs players attention. With click-through rates (CTR) ranging from 5% to 10%, these ads capitalize on moments when players are most receptive. While they can be more disruptive, strategic placement at logical breaks minimizes frustration and ensures that users are more likely to engage with the ads.
• Native Ads
  Native ads offer a seamless experience by blending into the game’s content, designed to match the look and feel of the interface. This format not only enhances user experience but also reduces ad fatigue, as players see these ads as part of the game rather than interruptions. With click-through rates up to 25% higher than traditional banner ads, native ads effectively promote brands while maintaining the integrity of gameplay.

Conclusion

In conclusion, selecting the best ad network for iOS games is critical to maximizing both revenue and user engagement. Top networks like AdMob, Unity Ads, and ironSource offer robust solutions customized to mobile games, with diverse ad formats such as rewarded videos and interstitials that keep players engaged without disrupting their experience. For example, Unity Ads powers over 70% of top mobile games, and AdMob is trusted by over 1 million apps globally. These networks leverage advanced technologies like real-time bidding and machine learning to optimize ad performance. By choosing the right platform, iOS game developers can effectively increase monetization while ensuring a seamless, enjoyable gaming experience for players.