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How to create a subscription in-app purchase for iOS

Offer auto‑renewable subscriptions in your iOS app to provide ongoing access to premium content or services.

S
Written by Support
Updated this week


Overview

Auto‑renewable subscriptions let users access premium content or services on a recurring basis—monthly, yearly, etc. They automatically renew until canceled and are ideal for ongoing offerings like media libraries, SaaS access, or exclusive content.


Required

  • Active Apple Developer Program account.

  • All Paid Application agreements, tax info, and banking cleared in App Store Connect.

  • Admin access to App Store Connect.

  • Your app must be created in App Store Connect.


How to create a subscription in-app purchase

  1. Log in to App Store Connect .

  2. Go to My Apps, then select your app.

  3. In the left menu under Features, click Subscriptions.

  4. If you don’t yet have a Subscription Group:

    • Click +, then Create Subscription Group.

    • Enter a Group Reference Name (e.g., “Premium Access”).

    • Click Create.

  5. Within the group, click + or Create Subscription.

  6. Enter Reference Name (internal) and Product ID (unique, used in code).

  7. Choose Subscription Duration (e.g., 1 month, 1 year).

  8. Set Pricing:

    • Click Add Subscription Price.

    • Select price tier and add more regions as needed.

  9. (Optional) Configure Introductory Offers or Free Trials using Create Introductory Offer.

  10. Add Localization:

    • Click Add Localization.

    • Enter display name and description for each locale.

  11. Under Review Information, upload a screenshot of the in-app purchase flow (required).

  12. Click Save to save your subscription.

  13. Submit your subscription for review; your first subscription must be submitted with a new version of your app.


Troubleshooting tips

  • Subscription tab not visible: Complete all agreements and banking setup.

  • Product stuck as “Missing Metadata”: Ensure duration, pricing, localization, and screenshot are all completed.

  • Subscription doesn’t load: Use a sandbox test account on a real device and enable developer settings.

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