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iosin-app-purchaseapp-store

Do I need to use Apple In-App Purchase when digital goods are also made available outside of the app?

I have a website which is an exam question bank for a variety of topics. A user can purchase a topic and unlock questions for the specific topic.

I'm currently writing an app which provides the same functionality as the website. Users can create an account on either the website or app, and anything purchased through the website will appear on the app.

I understand that Apple state that you must use their In-App purchase kit for digital goods, however because the purchase unlocks the same content not just in the app, but on the website, am I able to redirect users who wish to purchase a topic via the app to the website, sidestepping Apple's In-App Purchase?

Solution

  • The rules are very simple:

    1. Any digital goods or services purchased on the device must go through an In-App Purchase.

    2. Any physical goods or services must not go through an In-App Purchase (like eBay, Uber etc. )

    3. Any digital goods or services purchased elsewhere do not go through an In-App Purchase.

    4. You are not allowed to direct the users from your app to a website where they can purchase digital goods or services to use on their iOS device.

    So selling things through your website is fine. Directing users from the app to your website will get your app not allowed on the store.