What is OTT Monetisation?

OTT monetisation refers to the various methods content creators and distributors use to generate revenue from their Over-the-Top (OTT) platforms. These platforms deliver video content over the internet, bypassing traditional TV and cable services. OTT monetisation allows content providers to profit from video streaming services by leveraging a combination of advertising, subscriptions, and transactional models.

The monetisation approach depends on the platform's audience, content type, and goals. For example, some platforms use a subscription-based model (SVOD), where users pay for access to content, while others rely on advertising-based models (AVOD), where ads are shown to viewers in exchange for free access.

👉Read More: The Power of CTV Advertising

Key OTT Monetisation Models for 2024

There are several monetisation models that OTT platforms can adopt, and the right choice depends on the content, audience, and business objectives. Here are the most popular models:

Subscription Video on Demand (SVOD)

In the SVOD model, viewers pay a recurring fee to access content. This is the most common monetisation method for platforms offering premium, exclusive, or high-quality content. Examples include services like Netflix, Disney+, and HBO Max. This model provides stable and predictable revenue, especially if you have a loyal subscriber base.

Advertising Video on Demand (AVOD)

AVOD allows platforms to offer free content in exchange for ad impressions. Ads are typically displayed at various points during the content, such as pre-roll, mid-roll, or post-roll. This model is often used by platforms with large audiences but no paywall, such as YouTube and Peacock. AVOD can be very lucrative if you have high viewer engagement and can target specific demographic groups effectively.

Transactional Video on Demand (TVOD)

With TVOD, users pay for each piece of content they view, such as purchasing or renting movies or episodes. This model works well for exclusive or newly-released content that users are willing to pay a one-time fee to access. TVOD is often used by platforms like Amazon Prime Video for rentals and purchases.

Hybrid Models

Many OTT platforms combine SVOD and AVOD (SVOD+AVOD), offering users the option of a subscription that is ad-free or a free tier that includes ads. This flexibility allows platforms to cater to different viewer preferences and maximise monetisation opportunities. Hybrid models can boost user acquisition and retention by offering multiple options based on individual preferences.

Choosing the Right OTT Monetisation Strategy

Selecting the most suitable OTT monetisation strategy depends on several factors, including the type of content, audience engagement, and business objectives. Here are some key considerations:

Audience Type

If your audience consists of highly engaged users who prefer ad-free experiences, SVOD may be the best approach. However, if your platform has a large, diverse audience that prefers free access to content, AVOD can help you maximise revenue through ads. A hybrid model can cater to both paid subscribers and free viewers.

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Content Type

The type of content you offer will also influence the monetisation model. High-value, exclusive content like original shows and films may work best with SVOD. On the other hand, general or ad-supported content works well for the AVOD model, as you can generate significant revenue from large numbers of viewers.

Long-Term Goals

Consider your platform's long-term goals when selecting a monetisation strategy. If your goal is to generate immediate revenue, AVOD may be ideal. If you are looking to build a sustainable, long-term subscriber base, SVOD will help generate steady income. Hybrid models allow you to balance short-term ad revenue with long-term subscription growth.

How to Optimise Your OTT Ad Inventory

Efficient ad inventory management is essential to maximising OTT monetisation through advertising. By optimising ad placements, you can increase ad revenue without compromising the viewer experience. Here’s how to do it:

Dynamic Ad Insertion (DAI)

DAI allows ads to be inserted dynamically based on user behavior, location, or device type. This improves ad relevancy, reduces wasted impressions, and maximises ad revenue by targeting viewers more accurately.

Programmatic Advertising

With programmatic advertising, ads are sold and placed automatically using data and algorithms. This allows for better ad targeting and more effective use of your ad inventory. By leveraging programmatic platforms, you can optimise your OTT ads for maximum reach and revenue.

Frequency Capping

Frequency capping limits how often a viewer sees the same ad, reducing ad fatigue and preventing users from feeling overwhelmed. Effective frequency management can improve the viewer experience and increase ad effectiveness.

👉Read More: Creating a Winning CTV Strategy: Monetizing Your Content

To get the most out of your OTT monetisation strategy, follow these best practices:

Leverage Data for Targeting

Use viewer data to tailor ads to specific audience segments. The more relevant the ads, the higher the chances of engagement and conversions. Leverage demographic, behavioral, and geographic data to ensure you are serving the most relevant ads to each viewer.

Offer Multiple Subscription Tiers

Offering different subscription plans allows users to choose the level of access that best suits their preferences and budget. Consider offering both SVOD and AVOD tiers, giving users the option of paying for an ad-free experience or watching free content with ads.

Focus on Content Quality

Premium, high-quality content is essential for both attracting new viewers and retaining existing ones. Focus on creating engaging, unique content that aligns with your audience’s interests to drive long-term subscriber growth.

Measuring Success in OTT Monetisation

To effectively measure the success of your OTT monetisation efforts, focus on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as:

Revenue Per User (ARPU)

ARPU measures the average revenue generated per user, allowing you to assess the profitability of your SVOD, AVOD, or hybrid models.

View-Through Rate (VTR)

The VTR measures how many viewers watch the entire ad. This metric is critical in assessing the engagement and effectiveness of AVOD ads.

Subscriber Growth

Tracking the number of new and retained subscribers helps determine the effectiveness of your SVOD strategy. Sustained growth is a strong indicator that your content is resonating with your audience.

Ad Engagement Rates

Monitor how viewers interact with your ads, including click-through rates (CTR), engagement with interactive ads, and conversion rates. These metrics provide valuable insights into the success of your advertising campaigns.

👉Read More: What is SVOD (Subscription Video on Demand)? A Comprehensive Guide

Conclusion

As OTT platforms continue to evolve in 2024, OTT monetisation remains a key focus for content providers and advertisers. By adopting the right monetisation models, optimising ad inventory, and following best practices, you can effectively maximise revenue from your OTT platform. Whether through SVOD, AVOD, or hybrid approaches, the key to success lies in understanding your audience, offering engaging content, and using data-driven strategies to optimise your monetisation efforts.

By staying ahead of trends and leveraging advanced ad solutions, you can turn your OTT platform into a highly profitable venture that drives both short-term gains and long-term growth.

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FAQs

What are the main OTT monetisation models?

The main OTT monetisation models include SVOD (subscription-based), AVOD (ad-supported), and TVOD (pay-per-view). Many platforms also use hybrid models to combine these methods.

How do I optimise my OTT ad inventory?

Optimise your OTT ad inventory by using dynamic ad insertion (DAI), programmatic advertising, and frequency capping. These strategies help ensure your ads reach the right audience without overwhelming viewers.

What’s the difference between SVOD and AVOD?

SVOD (Subscription Video on Demand) generates revenue through subscriptions, offering ad-free content. AVOD (Advertising Video on Demand) generates revenue by showing ads to viewers who access content for free.

How can I measure success in OTT monetisation?

Measure success in OTT monetisation by tracking metrics like revenue per user (ARPU), view-through rate (VTR), subscriber growth, and ad engagement rates. These KPIs help gauge the effectiveness of your monetisation strategy.

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‍What is OTT?

OTT (Over-the-Top) refers to the delivery of video, audio, and other media content via the internet, bypassing traditional cable, satellite, or broadcast services. Essentially, it involves streaming services that provide content directly to viewers through apps or websites. This content is available on a variety of internet-connected devices, such as smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and computers.

OTT services allow consumers to access their favorite content on-demand, giving them more control over when and where they watch. Examples of popular OTT platforms include video streaming services like Netflix, YouTube, and Hulu. In addition to video, OTT can also include audio content, such as streaming music services like Spotify or podcast platforms.

👉Read More: The Power of CTV Advertising

How OTT Works

OTT operates by delivering content directly over the internet through a broadband connection. Unlike traditional TV services that require a cable or satellite subscription, OTT platforms work by using an app or website to stream content. These platforms may offer content through subscriptions (SVOD), ads (AVOD), or a combination of both.

• SVOD (Subscription Video on Demand): Viewers pay a regular subscription fee for unlimited access to content, such as Netflix or Disney+.
• AVOD (Advertising Video on Demand): Content is free to access, but viewers watch ads in exchange, like on YouTube or Peacock's free tier.
• TVOD (Transactional Video on Demand): Viewers pay for individual content, like renting or buying movies on platforms like Amazon Prime Video.

OTT services can be accessed on a variety of devices, from traditional smart TVs to mobile devices, providing viewers with maximum flexibility and ease of access.

OTT vs. Traditional TV: Key Differences

The key difference between OTT and traditional TV lies in the method of content delivery:

Device Access

• OTT: Delivered through internet-connected devices like smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smart TVs.
• Traditional TV: Delivered through cable or satellite TV connections to a TV screen, often requiring a physical cable box or antenna.

Flexibility

• OTT: Content is available on-demand, allowing users to watch what they want, when they want, without any restrictions on time slots or channels.
• Traditional TV: Viewers have to tune in at scheduled times to watch specific programs.

Cost Structure

• OTT: Offers multiple monetization models including subscriptions, advertising, or pay-per-view.
• Traditional TV: Usually requires a monthly subscription fee or is bundled with other services.

This flexibility in access, timing, and cost structure has made OTT increasingly popular, especially among younger audiences who prefer the on-demand, ad-free experience.

The Benefits of OTT Content Delivery

OTT offers several advantages over traditional broadcasting methods, both for consumers and advertisers:

Accessibility

One of the biggest advantages of OTT is that it allows viewers to access content on a variety of internet-enabled devices. This flexibility enables users to watch their favorite content from home or on-the-go, as long as they have an internet connection.

Personalization

OTT platforms often use advanced algorithms to personalize content recommendations based on a user’s viewing history, preferences, and even demographic data. This personalization enhances user satisfaction and engagement.

Lower Costs

For consumers, OTT services often provide a more affordable alternative to traditional cable packages. By subscribing to specific streaming services, users can pay only for the content they want to watch without the high costs associated with cable bundles.

Content Variety

OTT platforms provide access to a wide range of content, including exclusive shows, movies, live events, and niche programming that may not be available on traditional TV channels.

👉Read More: OTT Monetisation: Strategies to Maximise Revenue in 2024

OTT Advertising: What You Need to Know

OTT advertising is the practice of serving video ads on OTT platforms. This type of advertising allows brands to reach viewers directly on the devices they use to consume content. There are two main types of OTT ads:

Pre-Roll, Mid-Roll, and Post-Roll Ads

These are video ads shown before, during, or after streaming content. Pre-roll ads are the most common, while mid-roll ads often appear during natural breaks in content, similar to traditional TV commercial breaks.

Interactive and Targeted Ads

With OTT advertising, it’s possible to serve highly targeted ads based on user data. Ads can be tailored to specific demographics, viewing habits, or even past interactions with the platform. This level of targeting can significantly improve ad relevance and increase viewer engagement.

The advantage of OTT advertising over traditional TV ads is its ability to reach viewers across a variety of platforms and devices, with the added benefit of tracking and optimizing ad performance through real-time data analytics.

Measuring Success in OTT Campaigns

To gauge the success of OTT advertising campaigns, it’s important to track key metrics that align with campaign objectives. Here are a few critical metrics to monitor:

• View-Through Rate (VTR): Measures how many viewers watch an ad to completion.
• Click-Through Rate (CTR): Tracks the percentage of viewers who click on an ad’s CTA (Call-to-Action).
• Engagement Metrics: Includes likes, shares, comments, or other interactions with the content after viewing the ad.
• Conversion Rates: Tracks how many viewers took the desired action, such as signing up for a service or making a purchase, after watching an OTT ad.

By analyzing these metrics, marketers can adjust their strategy to optimize their campaigns and maximize ROI.

👉Read More: SVOD vs AVOD: Understanding the Key Differences in Video on Demand Models

Conclusion

OTT has fundamentally changed the way content is delivered and consumed. Offering flexibility, lower costs, and a more personalized viewing experience, OTT has become the preferred method of content consumption for many viewers. For advertisers, OTT advertising presents a powerful opportunity to target specific audiences, deliver relevant messages, and measure campaign effectiveness with real-time analytics.

As digital media consumption continues to rise, OTT’s influence will only grow, making it essential for brands to develop and optimize their OTT advertising strategies to stay ahead in a competitive market.

FAQs

What’s the difference between OTT and traditional TV?

OTT refers to content delivered over the internet, accessible on devices like smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs, while traditional TV relies on cable or satellite services. OTT offers on-demand content, while traditional TV has scheduled programming.

Can I advertise on OTT platforms?

Yes, OTT advertising allows brands to serve video ads on streaming services and platforms. These ads can be targeted based on user data, ensuring they reach the most relevant audience.

How does OTT compare to CTV?

OTT is broader and includes content delivered over the internet on any device, while CTV specifically refers to content delivered to internet-connected TVs. CTV is a subset of OTT.

Why is OTT advertising more effective than traditional TV ads?

OTT advertising is more effective due to its ability to target specific audiences, track real-time engagement, and offer personalized content, unlike traditional TV ads, which often cast a wider, less-targeted net.

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What is Connected TV Advertising?

Connected TV (CTV) advertising refers to digital advertisements that are displayed on TV screens through internet-connected devices such as smart TVs, set-top boxes, and streaming devices like Roku or Apple TV. These ads are delivered through streaming platforms, unlike traditional TV ads, which are broadcasted through cable or satellite networks. CTV ads offer a more interactive and targeted advertising experience.

With CTV, marketers can take advantage of data-driven targeting, reaching viewers based on specific criteria like interests, location, and viewing habits. This makes CTV advertising a powerful tool for connecting with a highly engaged audience.

👉Read More: Creating a Winning CTV Strategy: Monetizing Your Content

The Shift to Streaming: Why CTV Advertising Matters

The rise of streaming services has dramatically changed how people consume television content. As traditional cable TV usage declines, streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube continue to grow in popularity. By 2024, it is expected that streaming viewership will surpass traditional cable TV for good.

This shift in viewer behavior presents significant opportunities for advertisers. With CTV advertising, businesses can now reach consumers who prefer on-demand content. Not only does this enable brands to meet audiences where they are, but it also allows for highly targeted campaigns that drive better results.

Key Benefits of CTV Advertising

CTV ads come with a wide range of benefits that make them an attractive option for modern marketers:

Advanced Targeting

With CTV marketing, advertisers can leverage data insights to precisely target specific demographics based on factors like age, gender, location, and viewing habits. This level of granularity ensures that your ads reach the right people at the right time.

Enhanced Engagement

Viewers of CTV ads tend to be more engaged than traditional TV viewers. Because streaming services offer content on-demand, people who watch these services are actively choosing their programming, which increases the likelihood of them interacting with your ads.

Measurable Performance

Unlike traditional television, CTV ads offer detailed analytics that allow advertisers to track campaign performance in real-time. This includes metrics like view-through rates, click-through rates, and conversion rates, enabling you to make data-driven decisions and optimize campaigns on the fly.

Cost-Effectiveness

Compared to traditional TV ads, CTV advertising is often more cost-effective, allowing advertisers of all sizes to reach a broad audience without exceeding their budget. The ability to target specific viewers also increases the ROI, making it a worthwhile investment.

How CTV Ads Work: Technology Behind the Scenes

The power of CTV advertising lies in the technology that enables it:

Ad Placement

Ads are delivered to viewers through internet-connected streaming platforms, and can appear during content breaks or be integrated directly into the streaming content. This method of delivery allows for flexible ad placements that can be customized based on viewer behavior.

Targeting Capabilities

With CTV ads, targeting is done based on detailed data analysis. Advertisers use information like viewers' demographics, past viewing behavior, and even interactions with previous ads to serve the most relevant content to each individual.

Real-Time Analytics

One of the most significant advantages of CTV marketing is the ability to track ad performance in real-time. With the right tools, advertisers can assess how their audience is responding to their ads and make immediate adjustments to improve effectiveness.

👉Read More: OTT vs. CTV Advertising: What's the Difference & Examples

Crafting Effective CTV Campaigns

To maximize the impact of your CTV ads, it's important to develop a clear and structured approach to campaign creation:

Define Clear Objectives

Before you begin, it's essential to have clear objectives for your campaign. Are you trying to increase brand awareness? Drive conversions? Establish your goals early to guide your creative direction and measurement strategies.

Know Your Audience

Understanding your target audience is key to developing an effective CTV marketing strategy. Leverage available data to gain insights into the preferences and behaviors of your viewers, allowing you to create personalized, relevant campaigns.

High-Quality Content

Content is still king in CTV advertising. Invest in creating high-quality, visually appealing ads that resonate with your target audience. The more engaging your content, the more likely viewers are to interact with your brand.

Include a Strong Call to Action

Each CTV ad should have a clear, actionable call to action (CTA). Whether you want viewers to visit your website, download an app, or make a purchase, your CTA should be easy to understand and impossible to ignore.

Best Practices for CTV Advertising

To ensure your CTV marketing campaigns are effective, follow these best practices:

Consistent Branding

Make sure your branding is consistent across all ads to help build recognition and trust with your audience. This consistency will reinforce your brand's message and make it easier for viewers to remember.

Frequency Management

Avoid bombarding viewers with the same ad over and over. Too many ads can lead to ad fatigue and cause viewers to tune out. Set frequency caps to ensure your ads are seen at the right intervals.

Cross-Platform Integration

Consider integrating CTV ads with other digital marketing strategies, such as social media and mobile advertising. This cross-channel approach will help create a cohesive brand experience for your audience.

Measuring Campaign Success: Key Metrics

One of the key advantages of CTV advertising is the ability to measure success with precision:

View-Through and Click-Through Rates

These are two of the most important metrics for tracking the effectiveness of CTV ads. View-through rate (VTR) measures how many viewers watched your ad in full, while click-through rate (CTR) tells you how many clicked on your CTA.

Conversion Tracking

It’s essential to track how many viewers take the desired action after watching your ad. Whether it’s signing up for a newsletter or completing a purchase, conversion tracking lets you assess the true impact of your campaign.

ROI

Ultimately, the goal of any advertising campaign is to generate a return on investment (ROI). By tracking key metrics and making data-driven decisions, you can optimize your campaigns to achieve the highest possible ROI.

Overcoming Common Issues in CTV Advertising

While CTV advertising offers many benefits, it does come with its difficulties:

Ad Fatigue

If the same viewers are exposed to your ads too many times, they may become fatigued and less likely to engage. It’s essential to manage frequency and make sure viewers aren’t overwhelmed by repetition.

Device Compatibility

The fragmentation of the CTV ecosystem means that ads need to be optimized for different devices and platforms, such as Roku, Apple TV, and smart TVs. Ensuring compatibility across these devices can be a challenge but is necessary for maximizing reach.

Data Privacy

As with any form of digital advertising, it's crucial to comply with data privacy regulations like GDPR and CCPA when collecting and using customer data for targeting purposes. Make sure your campaigns respect user privacy to maintain trust.

👉Read More: What is OTT? A Comprehensive Guide to Over-the-Top Video Advertising

Conclusion

CTV advertising offers a powerful and cost-effective way to engage viewers in today’s streaming-driven world. By leveraging the unique capabilities of CTV marketing, advertisers can craft targeted campaigns that resonate with their audience and deliver measurable results.

As streaming continues to replace traditional television, CTV ads will play an increasingly important role in digital marketing.

Start optimizing your CTV advertising strategy today and stay ahead in this evolving landscape.

FAQs

What are the main benefits of CTV advertising?

CTV advertising offers key benefits, including advanced targeting based on viewer data, higher engagement rates due to on-demand content, and measurable performance with real-time analytics. These factors allow advertisers to deliver relevant ads to a specific audience and optimize campaigns effectively.

How can I optimize ad placement in CTV campaigns?

Optimizing CTV ad placement involves using data insights to determine the best timing for ads, ensuring they don’t disrupt the viewer experience. Experimenting with different ad formats, such as pre-roll, mid-roll, and post-roll ads, can also improve engagement and prevent ad fatigue.

What metrics should I track for a successful CTV campaign?

Important metrics for CTV campaigns include view-through rate (VTR), which shows how many viewers watched the ad completely, click-through rate (CTR) to measure engagement, and conversion rate, which tracks the actions viewers take after seeing the ad, such as making a purchase or signing up.

How can I ensure my CTV ads are effective?

To make your CTV ads effective, focus on creating high-quality content that resonates with your target audience, use personalized targeting based on viewer behavior, and include a clear call-to-action (CTA) to guide viewers towards the next step, such as visiting a website or making a purchase.

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‍What Causes Error 2020?

Error 2020 occurs when the app’s regional availability settings in App Store Connect do not cover the user’s location. This is frequently intentional, especially for apps targeting specific countries due to licensing or legal constraints. However, it may also happen inadvertently if the app’s settings are misconfigured or certain regions were omitted unintentionally.

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Common Scenarios for Error 2020 - App Not Available in Your Country

Developers typically encounter this error in the following situations:

1. Testing in Unavailable Regions: Attempting to test or distribute an app in a region where it’s not available triggers this error.
2. Intentional Regional Restrictions: Apps intended for specific markets may block access in non-target regions.
3. Incorrect App Store Connect Availability Settings: Misconfigured availability settings in App Store Connect can prevent users from accessing the app.
4. Geo-Restricted Content: Apps with geo-restricted media or services may be limited to certain regions, causing this error.

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Step-by-Step Solutions for Error 2020

Solution 1: Review and Update Availability Settings in App Store Connect

• Purpose: Ensures that the app is available in all intended regions.
• Steps:

1. Log in to App Store Connect and go to Pricing and Availability.
2. Under Availability, verify that all target countries and regions are selected.
3. Update the settings if additional countries need to be included.

• Result: Expanding availability settings allows users from more regions to access the app.

Solution 2: Check Regional Restrictions in Content or Licensing Agreements

• Purpose: Ensures that the app’s content or services comply with regional restrictions.
• Steps:

1. Review any content or licensing agreements that may restrict the app’s availability.
2. Ensure that all regions allowed by these agreements are covered in App Store Connect.
3. Update availability based on these restrictions.

• Result: Aligning the app’s settings with licensing agreements avoids inadvertent geo-restrictions.

Solution 3: Test with a VPN to Simulate Different Regions

• Purpose: Verifies the app’s availability in target regions by simulating different locations.
• Steps:

1. Use a VPN to connect from a country where the app should be available.
2. Attempt to access and download the app in the App Store.
3. Confirm that the app appears as available or troubleshoot further if it’s still restricted.

• Result: VPN testing helps identify regions where the app is unavailable, helping refine availability settings.

Solution 4: Notify Users of Regional Availability and Future Plans

• Purpose: Provides users in restricted regions with information about potential future availability.
• Steps:

1. Update the app’s description or website to indicate current regional availability.
2. Optionally include future availability plans for users in currently restricted areas.
3. Guide users to request updates for new regional availability.

• Result: Informing users manages expectations and helps prepare for possible future expansion.

Solution 5: Contact Apple Developer Support if Restrictions are Unintentional

• Purpose: Helps address unexpected restrictions that may not align with the intended availability settings.
• Steps:

1. Document all current availability settings in App Store Connect.
2. Reach out to Apple Developer Support with details of the issue.
3. Follow Apple’s guidance to adjust settings if necessary.

• Result: Apple’s support team can provide assistance to resolve unintentional regional restrictions.

Conclusion

‍Error 2020 - App Not Available in Your Country, usually results from regional availability settings or content restrictions. By reviewing availability in App Store Connect, checking licensing agreements, testing with VPNs, notifying users of availability, and consulting Apple Support, developers can manage and resolve this error effectively.

With Nami’s low-code solutions, developers can streamline regional app configurations to focus on market expansion with ease. Discover more at NamiML.

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‍What Causes SKErrorDomain Code=4?

‍Error Code 4 is caused by payment restrictions on the user’s Apple ID or device, often enabled through Screen Time parental controls or payment configurations that restrict in-app purchases. Additionally, testing on devices with limited payment capabilities, such as restricted accounts, will produce this error. Developers need to understand these causes to guide users effectively.

Common Scenarios for SKErrorDomain Code=4 - Payment Not Allowed

‍This error frequently arises in the following situations:

1. Parental Controls Enabled: If Screen Time or parental controls are activated, in-app purchases may be restricted.
2. Restricted User Accounts: Accounts set up with limitations or those lacking payment permissions can trigger this error.
3. Testing on Non-Standard Accounts: Attempting purchases on accounts that don’t allow purchases, such as child accounts or sandbox accounts lacking permissions.
4. Device Restrictions on Purchases: Device-level restrictions can prevent purchases, common on devices with certain corporate or family configurations.

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Step-by-Step Solutions for SKErrorDomain Code=4

‍Solution 1: Instruct Users to Check Screen Time and Parental Control Settings

• Purpose: Ensures that parental controls do not prevent in-app purchases.
• Steps:

1. Guide users to go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions.
2. Under iTunes & App Store Purchases, ensure that In-App Purchases are set to “Allow.”
3. Retry the purchase process.

• Result: Users can enable in-app purchase permissions, which eliminates payment restriction issues.

Solution 2: Advise Users to Update Payment Permissions in Apple ID Settings

• Purpose: Ensures the Apple ID used for purchases has the necessary permissions enabled.
• Steps:

1. In Settings > [User’s Apple ID] > Media & Purchases > View Account.
2. Check that purchase settings are enabled.
3. If using Family Sharing, ensure that the main account allows purchases.

• Result: Proper configuration of the Apple ID account resolves errors related to restricted purchases.

Solution 3: Test on a Standard Apple ID Account

• Purpose: Avoids issues related to testing on restricted accounts that don’t permit purchases.
• Steps:

1. Log out of restricted or sandbox accounts and log in with a standard Apple ID.
2. Ensure the test Apple ID account has enabled in-app purchases.
3. Retry the purchase flow with this account.

• Result: Testing on a standard account avoids errors from restricted permissions, allowing for accurate in-app purchase testing.

Solution 4: Enable Payment Method in Apple ID Settings

• Purpose: Ensures the Apple ID has a valid payment method to enable purchases.
• Steps:

1. In Settings > [User’s Apple ID] > Payment & Shipping.
2. Add or update a valid payment method if none is present.
3. Retry the purchase process.

• Result: Adding a valid payment method ensures the account is authorized for purchases, minimizing errors.

Solution 5: Restart Device to Apply Permission Changes

• Purpose: Resets device memory, applying recent settings changes that allow in-app purchases.
• Steps:

1. After adjusting permissions or payment settings, restart the device.
2. Reopen the app and attempt the purchase again.

• Result: Restarting the device ensures that all permission changes are updated in the system.

Conclusion

‍Error Code 4 - Payment Not Allowed, often results from device or account restrictions on in-app purchases. By guiding users through Screen Time settings, updating payment permissions, testing on standard accounts, and ensuring valid payment methods, developers can resolve this error effectively.

With Nami’s low-code solutions, you can easily configure in-app purchases without dealing with account restrictions or payment errors. Explore how Nami can simplify your app’s purchase flow at NamiML.

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‍What Causes Error ITMS-90161?

Error ITMS-90161 occurs when the provisioning profile associated with the app does not match Apple’s requirements or is no longer valid. This could be due to an expired profile, a mismatched bundle identifier, or a configuration error in Xcode’s signing settings. Familiarity with Apple’s requirements for provisioning profiles can help developers prevent this error.

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Common Scenarios for Error ITMS-90161 - Invalid Provisioning Profile

‍Developers frequently encounter this error in the following situations:

1. Expired or Invalid Provisioning Profile: Submitting an app with an outdated profile can lead to an Invalid Provisioning Profile error.
2. Mismatched Bundle Identifier: If the bundle identifier in the provisioning profile doesn’t match the app’s identifier, this error will occur.
3. Incorrectly Configured Code Signing Settings in Xcode: Misconfiguration in Xcode’s signing and provisioning settings can trigger this error.
4. Revoked or Incompatible Distribution Certificate: If the certificate linked to the provisioning profile has been revoked or doesn’t match, the profile becomes invalid.

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Step-by-Step Solutions for Error ITMS-90161

‍Solution 1: Check the Expiration and Validity of Provisioning Profiles

• Purpose: Ensures that the provisioning profile is active and valid for the app’s target platform.
• Steps:

1. Log in to Apple Developer Portal and navigate to Certificates, Identifiers & Profiles.
2. Under Profiles, verify that the profile is valid and not expired.
3. Renew the profile if it has expired, then re-download and install it in Xcode.

• Result: Using a valid profile prevents issues caused by expired or outdated configurations.

Solution 2: Confirm the Bundle Identifier in Xcode Matches the Provisioning Profile

• Purpose: Ensures that the app’s bundle identifier matches the provisioning profile.
• Steps:

1. In Xcode, navigate to General > Identity > Bundle Identifier.
2. Confirm that this identifier matches the one configured in the provisioning profile.
3. Update the bundle identifier in Xcode or the profile as needed.

• Result: Matching identifiers eliminate conflicts that lead to Invalid Provisioning Profile errors.

Solution 3: Verify Code Signing Settings in Xcode

• Purpose: Ensures the app is properly signed with a valid distribution certificate.
• Steps:

1. In Xcode, go to Signing & Capabilities.
2. Select the correct team and verify the provisioning profile settings.
3. Ensure the Code Signing Identity is set to the appropriate distribution certificate.

• Result: Correct code signing configuration prevents conflicts with the provisioning profile.

Solution 4: Generate a New Provisioning Profile Linked to the Correct Certificate

• Purpose: Avoids issues with outdated or revoked profiles by creating a new profile.
• Steps:

1. In Apple Developer Portal, navigate to Profiles > Add Profile.
2. Select the app’s bundle identifier and ensure the correct distribution certificate is selected.
3. Generate the new profile, download it, and import it into Xcode.

• Result: A new, correctly configured profile helps ensure compatibility with Apple’s requirements.

Solution 5: Remove Old Provisioning Profiles from Xcode and Reinstall

• Purpose: Prevents conflicts from multiple versions of the same profile.
• Steps:

1. In Xcode, go to Preferences > Accounts and select the Apple ID.
2. Under Manage Certificates, remove any old or expired profiles.
3. Reinstall the newly created provisioning profile.

• Result: Removing outdated profiles prevents conflicts and helps streamline the submission process.

Conclusion

Error ITMS-90161 - Invalid Provisioning Profile, often results from outdated profiles, mismatched identifiers, or improper code signing settings. By checking profile validity, verifying bundle identifiers, configuring code signing, creating new profiles, and removing old ones, developers can resolve this error and ensure successful submission.

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