iAd vs. AdServices: What’s the Difference?

Apple's shift from the iAd framework to the AdServices framework, coinciding with iOS 14.3, marks a significant change in how app developers access attribution data for Apple Search Ads. While iAd offered detailed attribution information contingent on user consent via App Tracking Transparency (ATT), it was limited to iOS and posed privacy concerns due to its potential for third-party tracking. In contrast, AdServices, available on iOS 14.3+ and macOS 11.1+, prioritizes user privacy by providing limited attribution data without requiring ATT consent, making it accessible for all users, including those using children's apps. AdServices supplies a token to fetch attribution data through its REST API, which, although less comprehensive than iAd, ensures developers receive consistent attribution data regardless of user consent. RevenueCat's integration with AdServices allows developers to track Apple Search Ads campaigns effectively, offering insights into customer acquisition and ad performance while adapting to the evolving privacy standards.