Can You Convert an Apple App from Individual to Organization?
It's a common scenario: you've built a fantastic iOS app, but you're now ready to take it to the next level and form an organization around it. Maybe you're bringing on partners, seeking investments, or simply wanting a more structured setup. This leads to the question: Can you convert an Apple app from an individual developer account to an organization account?
The short answer is no, you can't directly convert an existing app.
Here's why and how to approach the situation:
Understanding the Apple Developer Program
Apple has different Developer Programs for individuals and organizations. Each comes with its own set of features, benefits, and requirements:
- Apple Developer Program (Individual): Designed for independent developers, this program allows you to create and submit apps using your personal Apple ID.
- Apple Developer Enterprise Program: Ideal for organizations that need to distribute apps internally within their own company or organization.
- Apple Developer Program (Organization): Suitable for companies or organizations looking to distribute apps to the public.
The Roadblock: Apple's Policies
Apple's policies are stringent when it comes to app ownership and developer account transfers. You cannot simply switch from an individual account to an organization account without creating a new app.
The Solution: Creating a New App
The only way to effectively move your app to an organization is to create a new app under the organization's account. Here's how you can do it:
- Establish an Organization Account: If you haven't already, create an Apple Developer Program (Organization) account. This process requires documentation and verification from your company or organization.
- Prepare Your Codebase: Ensure your app's codebase is organized and well-documented. Make sure you have a clean build system and are using version control (like Git).
- New App Creation: Log in to your new organization account and create a new app with the same name and functionalities as your existing app.
- Transfer Code: Transfer your existing app's codebase to the new app's project. Depending on your project's complexity, this might involve copying files, setting up new dependencies, or even migrating code to a different repository.
- New App ID and Provisioning Profiles: Generate a new App ID and provisioning profiles under the organization's account. These are critical for signing and distributing the app correctly.
- Testing and Submission: Thoroughly test your new app on different devices. Once satisfied, submit it to the App Store for review.
Things to Consider:
- User Data: If your app uses user data, you'll need to ensure you have a secure method for transferring it to the new app. This may involve migration scripts or data synchronization tools.
- App ID Changes: Changing your app's App ID will require users to reinstall the app, even though the functionality should be identical.
- App Store Listing: Ensure your app's description and screenshots are consistent with the updated app name and organization.
- Reviews and Ratings: The new app will have a fresh App Store listing with no prior reviews or ratings. You'll have to start from scratch with user feedback.
- In-App Purchases and Subscriptions: Existing in-app purchases and subscriptions will not transfer to the new app. You'll need to set up new in-app purchases under the organization's account.
Conclusion
While you can't directly convert an existing Apple app from an individual developer account to an organization account, creating a new app under the organization's account is the most effective approach. It involves some effort in code transfer and rebuilding, but it allows you to retain your app's functionality and utilize the benefits of an organization account. Remember, always prioritize user data security and adhere to Apple's developer program guidelines.