Lifetime free is turning into a new monetization experiment for indie Mac/iOS apps. A cluster of startups is skipping subscriptions in favor of lifetime access or free unlocks, with SRUN, GroceryBudget, Socialite, Statera, and CoffeeMood at the center of the chatter [1][2][3][4][5]. Apple’s stance on free giveaways has also sparked discussion in the community [6].
• SRUN - Over 2K people have already claimed the free Lifetime Pass today, right as the launch rolled out. The app promises running-focused features and a “Pro” unlock path during onboarding as part of the promo [1].
• GroceryBudget - The author is offering a Lifetime Unlock (normally $3.99) free to claim until Nov 15, with no subscriptions or sign-ups and offline-first operation [2].
• Socialite - Free lifetime access is being offered in exchange for feedback sessions after onboarding, with a multi-step setup and ongoing data concerns discussed by users [3].
• Statera - The indie dev is making the app 100% lifetime free for 48 hours; the rest of the pricing story and onboarding flow are discussed in the thread [4].
• CoffeeMood - Early access includes Lifetime Memberships (normally $15.99) unlocked manually for UID commenters; the app emphasizes daily coffee journaling and a light, shareable experience [5].
Meanwhile, Apple is issuing warnings to developers running free app giveaways, signaling tension between growth tactics and platform policies [6].
Bottom line: lifetime offers are energizing indie launches, but the sustainability question and policy pushback will shape whether this becomes a lasting path or a temporary spike.
References
[iOS][$44.99 → Free Lifetime] SRUN - Running App! Over 2K people have already claimed the free offer today!
iOS SRUN launch with free lifetime pass, paywall issues, user feedback, Apple Watch support, dark theme appreciated, some users complained.
View source[$3.99 → Lifetime FREE] GroceryBudget – Simple Grocery Spending Tracker (free to claim until Nov 15)
GroceryBudget: iOS budgeting app for groceries, real-time tracking, offline use, no subscriptions, free lifetime unlock; discusses translations and scans.
View sourceGet Socialite free for life
Founder offers free lifetime access for feedback; discusses data collection, privacy safeguards, and future cross-platform plans for iOS devices ahead.
View sourceStatera is 100% lifetime free in the next 48 hours!
Indie Statera promo free 48h; debate IAP vs lifetime; seeking feedback; discussed alongside OneSec alternative apps; user responses welcome here.
View source[Giveaway] ☕️ CoffeeMood – Lifetime Subscription for Free (iOS)
CoffeeMood iOS diary app launched; giveaway lifetime access; praised for minimal design; users request font size and map integration.
View sourceApple Issues Warnings to Developers Running Free App Giveaways
Discusses Apple warnings to developers using free lifetime app giveaways, AppGratis case, and debates impact on indie apps and reviews.
View source