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Apple Rejection: “Guideline 3.2.2 – Business — Unacceptable Business Model or In-App Purchase Violation

Written by: ShopApper Team
16.06.2025 - 4 mins read

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Getting rejected by Apple under Guideline 3.2.2 is a common (and frustrating) issue for apps that charge users without using Apple’s official In-App Purchase (IAP) system. Whether you’re selling premium features, digital content, or subscriptions — if you bypass IAP incorrectly, your app is getting flagged.

🧠 What This Rejection Means

Apple enforces IAP to maintain control over all digital transactions. If your app:
  • Uses Stripe, PayPal, or a custom checkout for digital goods
  • Promotes external payment links for subscriptions or features
  • Mentions pricing, upgrades, or membership options outside of Apple’s flow
…you’re likely in violation of Guideline 3.2.2.

🔍 Apple’s Rules for Digital vs. Physical Goods

Selling
Apple Requires
Physical products (shipping, delivery)
✅ External payments allowed
Digital content (ebooks, courses, features)
🚫 Must use Apple IAP
Subscriptions to digital services
🚫 Must use Apple IAP
Reader-style access (e.g. Netflix, Spotify)
✅ External logins allowed, but no in-app signups

🔧 Example Scenarios That Get Rejected Under Guideline 3.2.2

Here are real-world examples where apps get rejected:
  • A fitness app charging for monthly workout plans through a web checkout link.
  • A meditation app promoting “Pro version” on its home screen — with no IAP integration.
  • A language learning app with a “Subscribe Now” button linking to Stripe checkout.
⚠️ These are automatic red flags for Apple.

🛠 How to Fix This Rejection

✅ 1. Remove or Modify External Payment References

  • Don’t mention “Pay with Stripe/PayPal” or include external upgrade buttons
  • Don’t link to your website for digital purchases
  • Avoid displaying prices if IAP isn’t implemented
💡 Pro Tip with ShopApper: We automatically hide or replace these elements to comply with Apple’s rules.

✅ 2. Implement Apple’s In-App Purchase (IAP)

If your app sells digital goods or subscriptions:
  • Set up IAP in App Store Connect
  • Match what’s offered in-app with your listing
  • Test with TestFlight to ensure everything works before submission

✅ 3. Consider the “Reader App” Model (If Applicable)

If your app allows access to content purchased outside the app (like Netflix or Kindle), you may qualify as a reader app — meaning you don’t need IAP.
But to qualify:
  • No pricing, signups, or purchase info in-app
  • Login access for existing users only
  • Declare this model clearly in the App Store submission notes
📘 Read Apple’s Reader App Guidelines

🚫 What Not to Do

  • ❌ Don’t direct users to your site for in-app purchases
  • ❌ Don’t bypass Apple IAP for digital content
  • ❌ Don’t include misleading metadata, pricing, or checkout links
  • ❌ Don’t assume Apple won’t notice your third-party SDKs

How Prepared Is Your Store for a Mobile App?

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✅ How ShopApper Helps You Stay Compliant

ShopApper ensures your app’s monetization complies with Apple’s standards:
  • 🔒 Detects and hides non-compliant elements automatically
  • 🛠️ Offers full IAP setup guidance and support
  • 📲 Customizes app behavior based on platform (iOS vs Android)
  • 🧾 Assists with App Store Connect setup and explanation notes
  • 🧑‍⚖️ Includes rejection recovery and resubmission support

💬 Real Talk: Don’t Let Payment Issues Stall Your App Launch

Apple wants to protect its users — and its revenue share. If your payment model isn’t clear and compliant, you’ll face delays and repeated rejections. But with ShopApper, you get expert help to:
✅ Fix your payment structure
✅ Pass review faster
✅ Keep your revenue flowing

🚀 How ShopApper Helps You Avoid Payment Rejections

With ShopApper, you don’t need to guess or risk rejection. Our platform:
  • Detects and hides payment features that violate Apple policy
  • Helps set up IAP when needed — fully integrated and tested
  • Automatically adapts your app for both iOS (Apple) and Android requirements
  • Offers human review before submission to avoid common rejection traps
💬 “We reduced rejection rates by 80% after switching to ShopApper’s compliant flow.” — Real customer feedback

Facing an In-App Purchase (IAP) Rejection?

You’re not alone — and it’s fixable. Let ShopApper help you adjust your app to meet Apple’s rules, without compromising on your business goals.

👉 Fix My Rejection with ShopApper

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