Payment Integration on Mobile
Taking payment inside an app can mean several things, from buying physical goods to subscribing to a service. The right approach depends on what is being sold, because the platforms have firm rules about which payment system you must use.
Getting this wrong risks rejection from the store, so it is worth understanding early.
The Rules Decide the Route
With mobile payments, the most important early question is not which provider to use but what you are selling. The app stores draw a firm line between digital goods and real-world products, and that line dictates which payment systems you are allowed to use. Establishing this up front avoids the painful situation of building a payment flow only to have it rejected at review.
Two Worlds of Payment
- Digital goods: features, content or subscriptions usually must use the store's in-app purchase system.
- Physical goods and services: real-world products can use providers such as Stripe or Apple Pay and Google Pay.
How We Approach It
- Clarify exactly what you are selling.
- Choose the compliant payment route for each item type.
- Integrate a trusted provider with strong security.
- Test the full purchase and refund journey thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't we always use our own card processor?
For digital goods, both stores generally require their own billing. For physical goods and services you have far more freedom to choose a provider.
If you need a hand with any of this, your Progressive Robot delivery team is ready to help. Raise a ticket from the Support area of your client portal or speak to your account manager and we will guide you through the next steps.