Apple Lets Developers Know That Universal Purchase for Mac Apps is Now Available

macappstoremacOS versions of apps can now be included as part of a universal purchase, which allows customers to purchase a single app (or in-app purchase) that works across iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS.

Apple says that developers can get ready to use the feature by assigning a single bundle ID for apps in Xcode and setting up their app record for universal purchase using App Store Connect.

A single purchase option for iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS apps was added in the Xcode 11.4 beta, which was first released in February. After developers have implemented single purchase options, customers will be able to buy one app that works across all of their Apple devices.

With the option to make a purchase of an app that works on all devices, Apple is unifying the categories in the iOS ‌App Store‌ and macOS App Stores, so there will be minor changes coming to the categories available in Apple's App Stores.

Top Rated Comments

goobot Avatar
52 months ago
I wonder how many apps will even do this considering I’m sure they would rather make you buy the app 5 separate times.
Score: 10 Votes (Like | Disagree)
martyjmclean Avatar
52 months ago

I wonder how many apps will even do this considering I’m sure they would rather make you buy the app 5 separate times.
We already know Things won't give up that $126 for seperate macOS, iOS and iPadOS apps.


When Apple rolls out the ARM desktops and laptops I imagine that's when they will close the ability to run third party apps. Only allow apps from the store then.
You've* been saying this since 2010 and there's still no sign of macOS running only App Store-authorised apps. Apple have even said time and time again this is never happening.
Score: 2 Votes (Like | Disagree)
nitramluap Avatar
52 months ago
Well I’d love to implement this with my App which has had a Catalyst version out now for 6 months. Unfortunately, this Catalyst App was REQUIRED to have a different Bundle ID to the iOS version... so now what?

How can I change the bundle ID to match the iOS one without pissing off all my current users and having them lose data? A migration plan would be appreciated Apple... :-/
Score: 1 Votes (Like | Disagree)
az431 Avatar
52 months ago

When Apple rolls out the ARM desktops and laptops I imagine that's when they will close the ability to run third party apps. Only allow apps from the store then.
nice try
Score: 1 Votes (Like | Disagree)

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