What In-App Purchase Setup Gets Through Review First Try?
Have you ever built what you thought was a perfectly configured in-app purchase system, only to receive a rejection email from Apple or Google that sends you back to square one? After setting up payment systems for over seventy apps across different industries, I can tell you that the difference between a first-time approval and weeks of back-and-forth rejections usually comes down to understanding a handful of specific requirements that both platforms care about deeply. The rules around in-app purchases have become stricter over time, particularly as app stores take their revenue share more seriously and protect users from confusing or misleading payment flows. Getting your IAP setup right from the start means you can launch faster, start earning sooner, and avoid the frustration of wondering why your submission keeps getting knocked back.
Most IAP rejections happen because developers assume their payment flow is clear when it actually confuses or misleads users about what they're buying
The process might seem complicated at first (took me ages to realise this), but once you know what the review teams are actually checking for, you can structure your purchases in a way that sails through approval without any drama.
Understanding Apple and Google's Payment Requirements
Both Apple and Google require that any digital content or services sold within your app must use their payment systems, which means they take their standard commission (typically 15-30% depending on your revenue and subscription status). This includes things like premium features, additional content, subscription access, or virtual currency that unlocks app functionality. Physical goods and services consumed outside the app (like ordering a taxi or buying trainers) can use external payment processors, but anything digital needs to go through their systems.
Apple is particularly strict about preventing apps from even mentioning alternative payment methods or directing users to websites where they might purchase the same content cheaper. Google has similar rules but has recently allowed some flexibility for certain app categories following legal challenges in various countries. Understanding how in-app purchases work from a legal perspective is crucial before diving into the technical implementation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most rejections happen because developers create payment flows that confuse users about what they're actually buying. The review teams prioritize clear, transparent purchasing experiences that don't mislead users about pricing, content, or subscription terms.
No, Apple strictly prohibits mentioning alternative payment methods or directing users to external websites where they might purchase the same content at different prices. This will result in immediate rejection and potential removal from the App Store.
Any digital content or services consumed within your app must use their payment systems, including premium features, additional content, subscriptions, and virtual currency. Physical goods and services used outside the app (like ride-sharing or physical product orders) can use external payment processors.
Both platforms typically take 15-30% commission depending on your app's revenue level and whether you qualify for reduced rates through programs like Apple's Small Business Program or Google Play's reduced service fee structure.
While both platforms have similar core requirements, Google has recently allowed some flexibility for certain app categories following legal challenges. However, the fundamental rule that digital content must use their payment systems remains the same for most apps.
If you address the specific concerns raised in the rejection notice properly, resubmissions usually get reviewed within a few days to a week. However, getting it right the first time by understanding the requirements upfront can save weeks of back-and-forth rejections.
Make sure your purchase descriptions are crystal clear about what users are buying, pricing is transparent with no hidden fees, and the user journey from selection to purchase completion is straightforward without any confusing steps or misleading language.
While the core digital content rules apply universally, some categories like reader apps, multiplatform services, and enterprise applications may have specific exemptions or modified requirements. Check the latest platform guidelines for your specific app category.
