You checked the subscription price on the website.
It looked reasonable.
But when you opened the app — the price was higher.
Same plan.
Same features.
Different price.
This isn’t a billing error — it’s a platform pricing difference.
Why App Store Prices Are Often Higher
- Apple and Google charge platform commission fees
- App Store purchases include in-app billing taxes
- Developers adjust prices to offset store fees
- Regional currency conversion differs from web pricing
App platforms typically take 15–30% of subscription revenue.
Many services increase in-app prices to maintain margins.
Web vs App Billing Systems Work Separately
- Website payments use direct payment processors
- App payments must use Apple / Google billing systems
- Discounts and promo codes often apply only on web
- Bundle pricing may differ across platforms
This separation creates visible price gaps.
Common User Confusions
- Seeing cheaper prices after already subscribing in-app
- Trying to switch billing platforms mid-subscription
- Assuming price difference is a billing mistake
In most cases, both prices are correct — just platform-dependent.
Can You Switch to the Lower Price?
- You must cancel the in-app subscription first
- Wait until the billing cycle ends
- Then subscribe through the website
Do not subscribe on both platforms simultaneously.
This creates duplicate billing.
Key Takeaway
Higher in-app pricing isn’t an error.
It reflects platform fees, tax handling, and billing system differences.
Choosing the purchase channel determines the subscription cost.