How to Add Subscriptions to a Base44 App, Step by Step

Why Base44 apps need Apple subscriptions

If your Base44 app sells digital access on iPhone, Apple requires in-app purchase. That's not only a rule — it's usually good for revenue. Apple's native purchase sheet converts better than a web checkout because the card is already saved and payment takes one tap with Face ID.

Step 1: Set up agreements in App Store Connect

Accept the Paid Apps agreement and add bank and tax details. Until this is done, no product can be bought — even in testing. Join the Apple Small Business Program to pay 15% commission instead of 30%.

Step 2: Create a subscription group and products

Create one subscription group (for example "Premium") with a weekly or monthly plan and a yearly plan. Keep the choice simple: two options convert better than four. Add a free trial as an introductory offer on the yearly plan.

Step 3: Design the paywall

Show the paywall at the moment of value — straight after onboarding, or when someone taps a premium feature. List three concrete benefits, show the price per week, highlight the trial, and include Restore Purchases, Terms and Privacy links, which Apple checks for. More in our paywall guide.

Step 4: Connect the native purchase layer

Base44 runs as web code, so purchases need a native bridge to StoreKit that tells your app who is subscribed. This is the step most founders get stuck on. Wanilla's Base44 in-app purchases layer does it without changing how your Base44 app is built.

Step 5: Unlock premium features

Save each user's subscription status to your Base44 data, then show or hide premium screens based on it. Check the status again when the app opens so cancellations and renewals take effect.

Step 6: Test in the sandbox, then submit

Use a sandbox tester account on TestFlight to buy, cancel, restore and let a trial expire. Submit the subscription products together with the app version, with a screenshot of the paywall in review notes.

Common mistakes

• A Stripe link still visible anywhere in the iOS app (guideline 3.1.1 rejection).
• No Restore Purchases button.
• Trial terms that aren't clear on the paywall.
• Products left in "Missing Metadata" status at submission.

FAQ

Can I keep Stripe for my web users?

Yes. Web customers can pay by Stripe; iPhone buyers use Apple. Tie both to the same account so access syncs.

Weekly or monthly?

Weekly plans often earn more in consumer apps; monthly suits tools and B2B. Test both — see subscriptions for AI-built apps.

Want it done for you?

Wanilla takes Base44 apps from working prototype to approved App Store listing, with subscriptions, push and analytics built in. Book a free launch review and we will tell you exactly what stands between your app and approval.