iOS - how can we offer discount through promo code for in-app purchase?

Question

I want to understand: how do promo code work? And also will the Apple store take care of reducing the price of the in-app purchase after the user has applied for the promo code from app store?

Answer 1

First thing Apple is not providing anything like promo code. Second thing you cannot reduce price of in-app purchase from the code.

Even though you want to implement this feature, then it can done by creating two in-app purchases. One is original price and other is at discounted price.

Let's understand by taking this example.

in-app purchase 1 - $2.99

in-app purchase 2 - $0.99

When promo code not implemented then in-app purchase 1 will take place otherwise in-app purchase 2 will take place.

All this thing you have to manage from the code.

Answer 2

Apple has offered promo codes for in-app purchases since October 28, 2016.

There are some limitations (only 100 for each version).

Here’s a step by step guide on how to generate these promo codes for your Apple app:

1. Log in to iTunes Connect.
2. Click the My Apps icon.
3. Select the app you wish to generate promo codes for.
4. Select the Features Tab.
5. Click Promo Codes, listed in the left-hand menu at the bottom.
6. Enter the number of codes you’re after. You’re only given 100 for each version of app, and they expire after 4 weeks…so choose wisely!
7. Click Generate Code(s) once you’ve entered the number and agree to the contract you’re prompted with!
8. The codes will be listed on the screen and will also be sent to the account team agent via their contact email.

Redeeming the codes.

Here’s some instructions you can send to the people you’re giving the codes to.

On iPhone / iPad

Open the App Store Tap Featured and scroll to the bottom Tap Redeem and enter your credentials Enter the code

On iTunes

1. Open the iTunes Store
2. Click Redeem and enter your credentials
3. Enter the code
4. The app will start downloading if it's redeeming an app promo code.
5. For in-app purchase promo codes, the app will automatically download if the app is free and not currently installed on the device.
6. If the app is paid, you will need to download the app in order to redeem the in-app purchase.

NB: Turn on automatic downloads if you want the app downloaded to your devices automatically. On the device go to Settings, iTunes and App Store, and ensure Automatic Downloads for apps is turned on.

Alternatively, sync your device with iTunes after the app has downloaded

References:

1. https://getauthentic.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/115000958634-Generating-promo-codes-for-your-iOS-app
2. https://support.crookneckapps.com/hc/en-us/articles/115000054666-Redeeming-in-app-purchase-promo-codes
3. https://help.apple.com/app-store-connect/#/dev50869de4a
4. https://apple.stackexchange.com/a/230792/194578