Can I Use 3rd Party Payments for Selling Digital Goods in Mobile Apps?
When you're building an app that sells goods or services, choosing the right payment system is critical. One common question developers ask: "Can I use third-party payments like Stripe inside my app?" Let’s break down the current policies of Apple’s App Store and Google Play Store in 2025.
Both platforms differentiate between digital goods (like ebooks, music, in-game currencies) and physical goods (like merchandise, food, or event tickets). Their rules are strict when it comes to digital products.
Apple App Store Policy
If your app sells digital goods or services, Apple requires you to use its In-App Purchase (IAP) system. Apps are not allowed to implement third-party payment solutions like Stripe, PayPal, or others for this type of transaction.
If you try to bypass this, your app will likely be rejected or removed.
For physical goods and services (think: ordering a meal or booking a hotel), you are free to use any payment system you like, including Stripe.
Recently, Apple allowed "reader apps" (like Netflix or Spotify) to provide an external link for account management, but not direct purchases. So unless your app qualifies under very specific exemptions, assume that digital goods must go through Apple’s billing.
Google Play Store Policy
Google has traditionally mirrored Apple's approach. If you are selling digital goods, you must use Google Play Billing. However, due to regulatory pressures around the world, Google has introduced an alternative called User Choice Billing in some regions.
Under User Choice Billing, developers can offer a third-party payment option like Stripe alongside Google's own billing — but Google still collects a service fee (slightly lower than normal).
However, if your app doesn't fall under the eligible regions or categories, the default remains: you must use Google’s system for digital goods.
As with Apple, if you’re selling physical goods, you're free to integrate Stripe or any other third-party payment provider without restrictions.
Quick Summary Chart
| Platform | Digital Goods Payment | Physical Goods Payment | Third-Party Payments (Stripe, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple App Store | Must use Apple IAP | Allowed | ❌ For digital goods / ✅ For physical goods |
| Google Play Store | Must use Google Play Billing (some "User Choice Billing" options) | Allowed | ❌ Normally / ✅ In some regions with User Choice Billing |
If you are selling digital content, expect to go through the App Store or Play Store billing systems. Trying to avoid this can result in app rejection or removal.
On the other hand, if you're selling physical products, you have much more freedom to integrate powerful third-party processors like Stripe.
Knowing the rules up front can save you a lot of headaches during your app development and launch!
