In this article:
With Glofox Community posts, operators can share External links or embed web-based content directly inside the app using iFrames. These tools are designed to help studios share resources, content, and experiences with members while keeping them in-app.
However, there are strict limitations on what types of links and embeds are allowed, especially when it comes to selling digital products. Misuse can result in Apple or Google rejecting your app.
This article explains:
- Apple and Google guidelines you must follow
- What types of links and embeds are allowed vs. not allowed
- What happens if your app is rejected
Apple and Google Guidelines
Apple and Google enforce strict rules around digital purchases inside mobile apps.
In short:
- Apps cannot link to external payment pages for digital products
- Digital purchases must use Apple or Google’s in‑app purchase systems
- Violations can result in app rejection or removal
- Because these policies change, always refer to:
- Apple App Store Review Guidelines
- Google Play Payments Policy
What links and embeds are allowed?
Allowed content
- You may use Community posts, External Links, or In‑App Web Embeds to share:
- Informational content (articles, guides, FAQs)
- Training or educational content as long as no purchase is required—including:
- Training programs or workout plans
- Meal plans, recipes, or nutrition resources
- WODs or workout calendars
- Forms or surveys (e.g. feedback, onboarding questionnaires)
- Dashboards, schedules, or read-only content
- Physical products consumed outside the app, such as:
- Supplements
- Merchandise (t-shirts, equipment)
- Services fulfilled in person, including:
- Gym memberships
- In‑person PT sessions
- Class packs
- Childcare or tanning services
Please note:
If the content requires a login and leads to a purchase, it may be flagged as a digital upsell. Be cautious with gated pages. When in doubt, ask your Customer Success Manager or refer to Apple/Google’s guidelines.
What links and embeds are NOT allowed?
Not allowed: digital product sales
You must not link to or embed pages that sell digital products or subscriptions using external payment methods.
Examples of not allowed content include:
- Shopify pages selling digital training programs
- Stripe, PayPal, or other checkout pages for digital content
- Digital coaching subscriptions or challenges
- Virtual class packs or online-only programs
- Third-party platforms selling digital fitness products
- Any page that requires payment to unlock digital content
- This applies even if:
- The page is embedded inside the app via iFrame
- The payment happens on an external website
- The user logs in manually
- Glofox does not process the payment
- Apple and Google reviewers treat these the same as direct in-app sales.
Important notes about Web Embeds (iFrames)
- Embedded content is fully owned and controlled by the studio
- Glofox does not control, verify, or monitor embedded links
- Because of this, studios are responsible for ensuring compliance.
What happens if my app is rejected?
If Apple or Google rejects your app:
- Our team will notify you of the rejection reason
- You’ll need to remove or update the offending link or embed
- Resolution time varies depending on the reviewer and changes required
- App review resubmission can take days or weeks
- Repeated violations can delay releases or affect your app’s standing.