I have an appointment scheduling app for Android and iOS.
I’m thinking about implementing a virtual currency to allow my customers to purchase SMS credits that they can use to send automated SMS reminders to their clients who are scheduling appointments. And I’ve asked the ChatGPT if I’m breaking some kind of rules regarding that implementation. I’ve received an answer:
From App Store Review Guidelines §3.1.3(b) – Goods and Services Outside of the App:
"If your app enables people to purchase physical goods or services that will be consumed outside of the app, you must use methods other than in-app purchase to collect those payments."
Does that mean I cannot use in-app purchase to sell these SMS credits? What’s the best workaround?
Also, AI gave me this answer, is it true?
No, you cannot sell SMS credits through RevenueCat (or Apple/Google in-app purchases), because SMS credits represent a real-world service, not a digital in-app feature.
However, you can use RevenueCat’s new virtual currency service for digital-only items (e.g. in-app upgrades, premium analytics, themes, digital reports), but not for telecom-related services like sending SMS messages.
Question
New Virtual Currency for SMS reminders? Apple/Google
+3This post has been closed for comments
+6Hey
You should be able to use virtual currency for that matter since SMS count as selling digital goods.
There shouldn't be any issue passing App Store Review with that business model.
I hope this helps, but let us know if you have any follow up questions.
+3
I’ll push a new app version/update in about 7-10 days. After the whole review process I might come back here to share some feedback.
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