Shopify App Pricing: charge for usage, recurring subscriptions, or both
Source: Shopify Dev Changelog
Shopify Renames Managed Pricing, Adds Usage-Based Billing Support
Shopify has rebranded its Managed Pricing feature to Shopify App Pricing and expanded its billing capabilities to support usage-based charges through the App Events API.
What Changed
The platform’s default billing solution, previously called Managed Pricing, now operates under the name Shopify App Pricing. Apps that used Managed Pricing will automatically see the updated name in their Partner Dashboard settings. The core functionality remains the same, with configuration still handled during app submission.
The update introduces usage-based billing as a new option alongside existing subscription models. Developers can now implement three pricing structures: recurring subscriptions, usage-based charges, or a combination of both models.
Implementation for Developers
Usage-based billing works through the App Events API, which allows apps to track and charge for specific user actions or resource consumption. This API integration enables developers to bill merchants based on actual usage metrics rather than flat subscription fees.
Apps can configure their pricing model directly in the Partner Dashboard during the submission process. The system supports hybrid approaches where developers charge a base subscription fee plus additional usage-based charges.
Technical Considerations
Developers using the previous Managed Pricing system need no immediate action, as the transition to Shopify App Pricing occurs automatically. However, apps looking to implement usage-based billing will need to integrate the App Events API into their codebase.
The pricing flexibility allows developers to align their revenue model with the value delivered to merchants, particularly for apps where usage varies significantly between installations.
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