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iOS program launch

How to start an affiliate program for an iOS app

Start with a commission-only offer, then connect each referred account to StoreKit 2 so subscriptions and refunds can be attributed server-side.

Published · Last reviewed

Written by Attribloom Engineering · Reviewed by Attribloom Product · Last reviewed

The launch plan

Decide the qualifying purchase, commission basis, hold, refund rule, and permitted promotion before recruiting. Attribloom then binds a referred user to an Attribloom-issued appAccountToken and confirms purchase events from App Store Server Notifications v2.

  • Define the paid action and exclusions.
  • Give each affiliate a link or referral code.
  • Bind on first launch and reuse the issued token.
  • Set the token on the StoreKit 2 purchase.
  • Forward Apple notifications, then test purchase, renewal, and refund.

What this does not do

This is purchase attribution for an affiliate program. It is not install-ad measurement, device fingerprinting, an affiliate marketplace, or a substitute for your own entitlement logic.

Launch review

Run the sandbox path before production. Confirm the referred account, signed Apple event, commission hold, and refund clawback all resolve to the same conversion before inviting partners.

Sources and verification

Primary documentation last checked on 2026-07-14. Each source below links the exact page and its own last-checked date.

Next steps

Frequently asked

Does an iOS affiliate program require fingerprinting?

No. Attribloom uses deterministic account binding and Apple's appAccountToken rather than device fingerprinting.

In the glossary

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