How to monetize a free mobile app?

Hi! For free games, the only way to monetize games is through advertising. In this case, profits come directly from advertising; this method allows players to enjoy the game for free.
Also, players can get extra bonuses for advertising.
But also the following ways of monetization of mobile games can be the optimal solution.
Freemium games. This type of monetization allows you to use the game for free up to a certain level. To continue, you need to buy the full version.
Subscription-based games. Subscriptions offer players certain benefits for a fixed price for a certain period of time.
Hybrid model.

Check out more information on this topic and monetizing mobile games in this article

I know this is an old post, but I saw that nobody had answered. Here's my two cents:

1. Allow paid services and take a cut (but be prepared for the IAP and app store fee debacle). I know this is sensitive both in your use case and due to recent events in tech, but the flip side is that:
   • If you're not providing a value, why would people pay you anyway (applying to you and paid providers in your app)? Make sure the value is tangible to justify this.
   • Even time is money. Just because you can do something for free, that doesn't mean you necessarily should.
   • Free services are often a path to paid work. By enabling the latter, you're both adding and gaining value, while not removing yourself from the paid part of the equation.
2. Use ads minimally and unobtrusively (and with tracking kept to the minimum possible) for free services, possibly offering a cheap ad-free upgrade.
3. Even if you interest investors, they'll need to see a monetization strategy. They're not just going to give you money out of the goodness of their hearts.
4. If you do expect people to give money out of the goodness of their hearts, your only options are crowdfunding or asking for donations. Be aware that users may find either of those things more annoying than ads or paid services.
5. Whichever path you choose, you need to be prepared to promote.

Monetizing a free mobile app can be challenging. Here are some alternative monetization models to consider:

• In-app purchases: Offer additional features or content for a fee.
• In-app advertising: Integrate non-intrusive ads relevant to users.
• Subscriptions: Offer a subscription plan for premium services.
• Meta layer monetization: Explore partnerships or collaborations for added value.
• Hybrid monetization: Combine multiple models for diverse revenue streams.

Building a sizable user base is crucial. Instead of selling the app, consider these models. For more insights, you might find this article helpful: Monetization Models for Apps. Best of luck with your project!