Apple introduced the Advanced Commerce API on Thursday, designed to support a wider range of in-app purchase formats like subscriptions and content add-ons. The company clarified that this new API will not affect its existing commission structure.
The App Store Connect API is a RESTful API that allows you to automate tasks within App Store Connect. You can download the OpenAPI specification file by clicking the link provided. The API returns JSON data in its responses, which include links to related resources.
You can use these links to navigate through related data, such as locating beta testers within specific TestFlight beta groups. Additionally, you can filter requests for particular resources to narrow down the responses.
In its announcement, Apple emphasized that the App Store handles billions of transactions annually, helping developers grow and deliver top-tier experiences. The new API aims to better support evolving business models, such as large content catalogs, creator experiences, and subscriptions with optional add-ons.
Apple outlined three primary use cases for the API: apps with extensive one-time purchases and frequent updates (like audiobooks or courses); apps offering creator-led content with one-time or subscription-based access; and subscription services offering add-ons such as extra channels or regional content.
This move may also support platforms like Patreon, which Apple previously required to adopt its billing system or face removal from the App Store. Patreon plans to gradually transition to Apple’s payment system by November 2025. Following pressure from the EU to allow alternative payment systems and third-party app stores, Apple has been taking steps to offer more value for developers, including allowing retro game emulators and providing discounts for lapsed subscriptions.
