Indie Mac and iOS apps are turning giveaways into growth engines. Promo tactics—from free licenses to lifetime codes—are changing how tiny dev teams gain visibility and users.
PhoneWalls is handing out 10 free 1-year Pro codes for a wallpaper app, redeemable in the App Store. Pro benefits include ad-free access and daily exclusive wallpapers. [1]
ShiftPlus, a native macOS tool for managing browser profiles and workspaces, is offering a giveaway: 100% off codes for 20 lucky users. Right now it’s a $19.99 lifetime license (one-time) or $29.99 for two Macs. [2]
Snaps Of Apps is offering 2000 free full licenses for v1.8; redemption is simple with code 1GOUGIF. [3]
GymsLock is normally $79.99 but is free for a limited time, as the creator tests pricing and gathers feedback on the sweet spot. [4]
SpotiActions is now completely free to download, shifting to a model where only optional upgrades cost money. [5]
Greed pokes fun at pricing with $9.99/month, $117.99/year, and a $250 lifetime “STFU Plan,” triggering a lively debate. [6]
Menuist v4.1 adds features and clarifies a free vs paid split: the main difference is that settings are behind the paywall while the core finder/menu features stay free. [7]
These promo plays show indie devs leaning into virality and community feedback to drive adoption in the Mac/iOS ecosystem.
References
Free 1-year Pro giveaway for my wallpaper app – PhoneWalls
IOS wallpaper app PhoneWalls offers free 1-year Pro codes; promotes stock and exclusive wallpapers; community requests codes.
View sourceShiftPlus - a native macOS app to manage browser profiles, window layouts, and workspaces - [Giveaway Lifetime Promo Codes]
ShiftPlus Mac app for profiles, windows, workspaces; no analytics; licensing; comments discuss dock layout, tests, codes, pricing, polished and informative.
View sourceSnaps Of Apps v1.8 — Instant feedback, auto-dismissing notifications, macOS 10.15+… and 2000 free full licenses
Snaps Of Apps v1.8 for macOS saves/restores window layouts; instant feedback, auto-dismiss notifications, Catalina+ support, 2000 free licenses offered today.
View source[$79.99 → Free for a limited time] GymsLock – Locks your phone until you take a gym photo 🏋️♂️
GymsLock for iPhone; pricing debate; claims lock vs. iOS lock screen confusion; user concerns about deception.
View sourceI followed the community’s advice and made **SpotiActions** completely free to download
SpotiActions goes free; iOS Spotify alarm app, updated pricing; praises morning routine and calm playlists; reviewer requests more reviews, please.
View sourceAfter trying endless local-only no-server subscription-based apps, I finally snapped and decided to vibe-code my own - Say hello to Greed 💰
Mac app Greed offers distraction blocking and wallpaper, with subscription pricing; sparked satirical and critical comments about value and pricing.
View sourceMenuist v4.1 is out! A macOS Finder enhancement tool that integrates context menu extensions and menu bar navigation. The new version adds a "Common Scripts" feature and supports setting folders as website shortcuts.
Menuist v4.1 updates mac Finder menu with scripts, shortcuts; free features plus paid options; Paste Quick noted as alternative option.
View source