Apple refusal of app refunds

In the past few months I have purchased apps through Apple Store that do not work as stated. The latest being Lifesum app. I paid for a premium version and it has never updated past the basic, free version. I requested a refund and Apple denied it and after questioning it Apple replied it was the responsibility of the app developer. I requested a refund from the developer and was told Apple took the money and they were responsible for refunding it. I went back to Apple and they denied it again. It is so frustrating as a consumer to pay for something that does not work as stated and no recourse for getting the money back. Apple used to issue refunds and then stopped and never any explanation given. I am hesitant to purchase any future apps from Apple which kind of makes my phone unusable.

iPhone 16 Pro Max, iOS 18

Posted on Mar 29, 2025 8:32 AM

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Mar 29, 2025 9:01 AM in response to cynlane

If the issue is that you paid for a premium version and did not get it, then that is the developers responsibility and they have many options to work with you for a resolution. They were the one's that received the money for your purchase minus the 15% or 30% fee depending on the app volume. The focus should be on getting the service you paid for and it is true you will not get your money back from the developer. On your end, you can try redownloading the in-app purchase and on the developers end, they can issue Promo Codes to activate the service you had paid for.

If you can't find or use your in-app purchases - Apple Support


You can also write a review for the app in the App Store, which may lead to the Developer being more responsive to your issue and also alert other potential users. Most developers would rather work with you to resolve a problem than have a negative experience viewed by others. If you feel like the developer has not responded adequately to resolve the problem, then you can report the app to Apple here and choose the appropriate reason.

  1. Sign in to reportaproblem.apple.com.
  2. Tap or click "I'd like to," then choose the reason.


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Apple refusal of app refunds

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