Reader apps on iOS: How to distribute digital content without in-app purchases
Apple’s App Store policies traditionally require apps to use in-app purchases for digital content sales. However, "reader apps" provide an alternative path for developers looking to distribute digital content without relying on Apple’s payment system.
With the External Link Account Entitlement, eligible reader apps can include a direct link to their website for account creation and management, giving users more control over their subscriptions and purchases.
Explore what reader apps are, when to consider using them, how to request the external link account entitlement, and the steps to implement it in your app.
What exactly are reader apps?
Reader apps are apps whose primary function is to provide access to digital content such as:
- Magazines and newspapers
- Books and audiobooks
- Music and podcasts
- Videos and streaming services
These apps allow users to sign in to an existing account and access content purchased outside the app, including through an external website by using the External Link Account entitlement.
Unlike other apps, reader apps can bypass in-app purchases as long as they meet Apple’s requirements.
What Is the External Link Account Entitlement and how does it work
The External Link Account Entitlement enables reader apps to include an external link for account creation and management. However, not all apps qualify for this entitlement. To be eligible, your app must:
✅ Offer digital content (magazines, books, audio, music, or video) as its primary function.
✅ Allow users to sign in to an account.
✅ Give users access to previously purchased content or subscriptions.
🚫 Not offer in-app purchases on iOS, iPadOS, or tvOS while using the External Link Account Entitlement.
🚫 Not facilitate any real-time or person-to-person services (such as tutoring or consultations).
Apps that include digital content as a secondary feature — such as social networking apps that include video streaming do not qualify.
You can always find the latest guidelines on Apple’s reader apps documentation.
What are the app and link requirements?
Apple enforces strict rules for how the external link is displayed to users. Your app’s link must:
✅ Open in the default browser, not a web view.
✅ Be formatted as standard blue underlined text with your website’s domain name.
✅ Be static, meaning it cannot change dynamically.
✅ Appear only once per page in the app.
🚫 Not display pricing information (e.g., “Subscribe for $9.99” is not allowed).
Failing to meet these guidelines can result in rejection during App Store review, so ensure compliance before submitting your app.
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How to request the External Link Account Entitlement
If your app meets the eligibility criteria outlined above, you can request the entitlement by following these steps:
- Submit the request form via the Apple Developer website.
- Provide details about your app, including its content and functionality.
- Agree to Apple’s terms for using the entitlement.
Each request is tied to a specific bundle ID, meaning the entitlement can only be used for the associated app. If you manage multiple reader apps, you’ll need to request the entitlement for each app separately.
How to implement the in-app modal sheet
Once your External Link Account Entitlement is approved, you can add a link to your external website. However, the link must appear only once per page within your app. Before users leave your app using this link, you are required to display an in-app modal sheet (pop-up) informing them that they are about to leave the app.
This requirement applies to iOS 16, iPadOS 16, and tvOS 16.4 or later.
To implement the in-app modal sheet:
✅ Use the StoreKit API to check if the user can make payments.
✅ Display the pre-designed modal sheet before redirecting them.
✅ Ensure localized versions are available if your app supports multiple languages.
Apple also provides the latest Design Specifications for In-App Modal Sheets on their developer portal.
Median accelerated the implementation journey of the In-App Modal Sheet by providing a purpose-built Reader-Modal plugin.
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Summary
Apple’s External Link Account Entitlement allows eligible reader apps (those primarily offering books, music, or video content) to include a link to their website for account creation and management, bypassing in-app purchases.
To qualify, apps must primarily provide digital content, allow users to sign in, and not offer real-time services or in-app purchases and be approved for the external link account entitlement.
For apps that meet Apple’s criteria, this entitlement provides greater flexibility in monetization while remaining compliant with App Store policies.
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