We’re launching web subscriptions alongside our iOS app. The price gap is pretty obvious when users can save 30% by going direct.
How do you handle messaging around this? Want to drive web conversions but not burn bridges with the app stores.
Just say web has better margins so better support.
Don’t pitch web as the cheaper option - sell it as the complete experience. I ran campaigns for a productivity app where we highlighted desktop features mobile couldn’t touch: bigger screens, keyboard shortcuts, proper file management.
Users felt like they were upgrading, not just dodging fees. 40% of our iOS users switched to web plans because the value made sense.
Try framing it as “direct access” too - faster updates, no app store delays, direct line to the dev team. Feels exclusive instead of just cheap.
This video covers solid strategies for growing web subs without platform drama:
Make web feel premium, not discount.
Call web subscriptions “premium memberships” and load them with exclusive perks. Think priority support, early access to updates, or web-only tools that make the higher price worth it. You can also pitch it as supporting the company directly - people like cutting out the middleman and helping you grow. Just don’t mention store fees in your messaging.
I call it “early bird pricing” or “founder pricing” for web subscriptions. Feels like a limited deal instead of highlighting the app store markup.
You can also bundle extra features with web plans. Users get more value for the same price rather than just cheaper access to the same stuff.