Promo Codes
Promo Codes are Apple’s official free-giveaway mechanism: generate redemption codes so designated users can download your paid app for free, or get specific IAP items for free. Ideal for press, seed users, and special channels.
| Scenario | Description |
|---|---|
| Give away a paid app | Let users download your paid app for free |
| Give away IAP | Let users get specified IAP items for free (non-consumable, auto-renewable subscriptions, etc.) |
| Press / reviews | Provide codes to tech media and influencers for review |
| Seed users | Reward early users and core fans |
Promo codes ≠ coupons. Promo codes are “free giveaways” (the user pays nothing); discounts belong to the subscription offer system or regional pricing adjustments.
- Go to App Store Connect → select the app → App Information (or the relevant IAP page) → Promo Codes.
- Click + Generate:
- App promo codes: up to 100 codes per app version.
- IAP promo codes: generate a limited number of codes per IAP for users to redeem the IAP for free.
- Copy and distribute to target users.
- Users redeem the code in the App Store’s Redeem entry.
- Limited quantity: the number of promo codes per version / per IAP has an upper bound; allocate wisely.
- One code, one use: each code can be redeemed once.
- Expiry: codes usually have a validity period (roughly 1 year from generation; check the interface), so use them within the window.
- No resale / no bulk abuse: can’t resell codes or use them for ranking manipulation.
- IAP promo codes: apply only to certain IAP types — confirm the IAP supports them before creating.
Reality check: promo codes are a “small-scale, targeted” tool, not for mass growth. For scalable free trials or campaigns, use subscription free trials or price reductions instead.
| Aspect | Promo Codes | Subscription Offer Codes |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Free app / IAP giveaway | Discounts or trials for subscribers |
| Applies to | Paid apps, some IAP | Auto-renewable subscriptions |
| Redeemed value | Fully free | Per offer terms (discount/trial) |
| Typical use | Press, giveaways | Win-back, promotions |
- Confirm your app / IAP supports promo codes
- Code allocation planned (press / seed users / campaigns)
- Redemption method and validity communicated
- Avoid bulk use and resale
- Can I sell promo codes? No. They’re giveaway items; resale violates Apple policy.
- Which IAP types support promo codes? Mainly non-consumable IAP and auto-renewable subscriptions; check interface support when creating.
- Redeem failure? Check whether the code is used, expired, or the region/account doesn’t qualify.
- Can I distribute multiple batches for a live version? The number of codes per version is limited; a new version release lets you generate a new batch.