How to create a subscription in-app purchase for iOS

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.

Requirements

• 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.