The ultimate guide to iOS subscription testing

Testing App Store subscriptions in iOS is a challenging but essential task for developers, exacerbated by limited documentation and resources from Apple. This guide offers comprehensive strategies for testing subscriptions across three key environments: the developer sandbox, TestFlight, and the production App Store. Each environment presents unique quirks, such as the unreliable nature of the developer sandbox and the 24-hour subscription renewal rate in TestFlight, which formerly allowed for rapid testing. Developers are advised to employ StoreKitTest for local simulation of subscription behaviors but are encouraged to conduct final tests in the sandbox to ensure proper configuration in App Store Connect. The guide also highlights the importance of understanding subscription renewal and expiration nuances in these environments, along with practical tips on using sandbox accounts, managing subscription states, and engaging beta testers effectively. Additionally, the guide covers testing procedures for various scenarios, including subscription renewals, cancellations, and restorations, and offers insights into implementing features like introductory offers and promo codes for a seamless user experience.