I would like to confirm my understanding of how app availability and app removal affect existing and new users on the App Store.
Scenario 1: App is removed from sale in App Store Connect
(Availability is changed so the app is no longer available for new downloads.)
My understanding is:
-
New users
- Cannot find or install the app from the App Store.
-
Existing users who already have the app installed
- Can continue using the app normally.
-
Existing users who delete the app
- Can still re-download it from their Purchase History / Previously Purchased apps.
Is this correct?
Scenario 2: App is deleted using the "Delete App" option in App Store Connect
(My understanding is that the app itself is removed rather than simply being removed from sale.)
My understanding is:
-
New users
- Cannot find or install the app from the App Store.
-
Existing users who already have the app installed
- Can continue using the installed app.
-
Existing users who delete the app
- Can no longer re-download the app.
Is this correct?
Additionally, could someone clarify the differences between the following actions and their impact on existing users?
- Remove from Sale
- Remove from App Store
- Delete App in App Store Connect
- App removed by Apple
In particular, I would like to understand whether users who previously downloaded or purchased the app can still re-download it after each of these actions.
Thank you for your help.