How to Implement APP Subscription Payment: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

With the upgrade of mobile application business models, subscription payment (such as memberships, content unlocking, etc.) has become a mainstream monetization method. This article systematically outlines the complete process for implementing subscription payment in iOS Apps, suitable for developers and product managers.

1. Create App Entry in App Store Connect

• Log in to App Store Connect.
• Select “My Apps” → Click “+” to create new App.
• Fill in App name, Bundle ID, platform, and other basic information.
• After successful creation, the App can configure in-app purchase items and upload packages.

2. Create Subscription (IAP) Items

• Go to the target App’s “Features” or “In-App Purchases” page.
• Click “+” to create new in-app purchase item, select “Auto-Renewable Subscription”.
• Fill in subscription name, product ID, price tier, description, and other detailed information.
• Upload subscription screenshots and descriptions for review.
• Save and submit for review.

3. Develop and Integrate Subscription Payment Features

• Integrate StoreKit framework in Xcode project.
• Use subscription Product ID to implement purchase, restore purchase, receipt validation, and other logic.
• Support sandbox test accounts for development testing.

Code Example (Pseudo-code):

let payment = SKPayment(product: subscriptionProduct)
SKPaymentQueue.default().add(payment)

4. Upload App Package to App Store Connect

• Archive project in Xcode and open Organizer.
• Select Distribute App → App Store Connect → Upload to upload package.
• After successful upload, fill in version information and upload screenshots in App Store Connect.

5. Test Subscription Payment Process

• Add test accounts in “Users and Access” → “Sandbox Testers”.
• Install test version App on real device, log in with sandbox account, and initiate subscription purchase.
• Check if subscription callbacks, unlock features, expiration renewal, and other processes work properly.

6. Submit for Review and Official Launch

• After all features are tested without issues, submit App version for review.
• After review approval, users can officially subscribe and pay within the App.

Common Issues and Considerations

• App must first create entry in App Store Connect before adding subscription items.
• Subscription payment features must strictly comply with Apple’s review guidelines, ensuring users are informed and can cancel.
• Always use sandbox accounts during testing to avoid real charges.
• Subscription cycles are accelerated in test environment for convenient multiple rounds of testing.

Summary

Key steps for implementing APP subscription payment include:

1. Create App entry in App Store Connect
2. Create subscription items
3. Integrate subscription payment logic
4. Upload App package
5. Sandbox testing
6. Submit for review and launch

Each step is like product listing, pricing, cashier, trial, and official sales - interconnected and indispensable. Proper process planning and thorough testing are prerequisites for ensuring subscription payment experience and compliance.

If you need detailed code for any step or backend configuration instructions, feel free to leave a comment for discussion!