Apple this week has announced a new API which expands in-app purchase capabilities on the App Store. This will provide developers with new ways to support big content catalogs and give developers more customiziable subscription models.
The “Advanced Commerce API” allows developers to support large content catalogs, creator experiences, and subscriptions within their apps. It leverages the App Store’s commerce system for payment processing, tax support, and customer service. To be eligible, apps must use In-App Purchases for large catalogs of one-time or subscription content. Apps must also manage purchase catalogs as individual product identifiers, use StoreKit 2, and provide ways for customers to manage subscriptions and request refunds. The API is compatible with devices running iOS 15.0 or later and other specified OS versions.
The Advanced Commerce API addresses three main use cases:
- Apps offering extensive libraries of one-time purchase content, like audiobooks or educational courses, that require frequent updates.
- Apps providing access to creator-led content, enabling users to purchase either one-time or renewable subscriptions tied to specific creators or collections.
- Subscription services offering optional add-ons, such as additional channels, sports content, or region-specific options, as renewable purchases within a broader subscription framework.
Apple’s announcement is part of a broader effort to refine its App Store policies and support developers’ evolving business models. Developers can request access to the Advanced Commerce API on the Apple Developer website.