New Apple API allows better management of in-app purchases
When apps offer numerous different in-app contents for purchase, it quickly becomes confusing for developers. Apple wants to help with new interfaces.
Working with in-app purchases in the App Store: developers should be able to manage them better.
(Image: Apple)
Developers who rely on many in-app purchases in their iOS or iPadOS applications know the problem: managing them via the App Store Connect website can become confusing in the long run. Apple itself has now recognized this and has been offering a new programming interface for precisely such purposes since last week: the Advanced Commerce API. Among other things, it is also aimed at providers of their own content stores. In addition, it is now easier to market subscriptions with paid additional functions (“add-ons”).
More flexible for certain business models
Apple describes the Advanced Commerce API in its developer area specifically for three application scenarios: Apps with “exceptionally large catalogs of one-time purchases”, apps with “exceptionally large catalogs of subscription content” and apps that offer add-on features to subscribers as individual sales in addition to the same. Initially, the new interface will therefore only be available for these three application types; developers must apply specifically to participate.
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In addition to the Advanced Commerce API, in certain cases developers can also gain access to the so-called Cancel API, which is intended to facilitate the management of subscription cancellation processes. An application must also be submitted to Apple for this. The new interfaces should also make it easier for Apple to comply with regulations such as the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in the EU, as more options are placed in the hands of developers.
Problems and omissions
Apple has summarized in an FAQ what the Advanced Commerce API can and cannot do – and there is also more detailed information on the apps it supports. The fees for the sale of in-app content will not change for the time being; commissions will follow the existing “Business Terms”. Apple also emphasizes that even after accessing the Advanced Commerce API, App Store Connect can still be used in parallel, so there is no obligation to use the new programming interface if it proves to be impractical for the developer.
There are also currently still some restrictions: Sales processed via the Advanced Commerce API cannot currently be advertised in the App Store, and there is a lack of other features. These include subscription offers, in-app sales that can be shared with the family and StoreKit testing in Xcode. However, Apple apparently wants to add these functions later.
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