Promo pricing is reshaping how Mac and iOS apps win downloads in 2025. Indie devs lean on limited-time promos and lifetime access to spark trials and loyalty.
Pomidor has moved some features behind a Pro plan at $0.99/month, while the core app remains free. Everything originally free stays free, with Pro simply funding extras like the new Midnight theme and icon options. The result: 8,000+ downloads in two weeks [1].
Captr is offering a free 1-year premium inside the app, with no sign-up needed and a simple upgrade path. The AI-driven organizer promises automatic tagging, reminders, and unlimited uploads for a year [2]. The promo runs until Monday, Nov 3, 2025 [2].
Hive5 launches with lifetime free access for early users. No subscription or payment until you rent, plus credits for listings [3]. The team is region-rolling out in the US first to test security and support [3].
Mindful shifts to a free lifetime tier alongside premium plans. The app remains 100% free today—ads-free with breathing guides and calm visuals—while the team hints at discounts or a lifetime code if/when premium returns [4].
Kutu promotes FREE LIFETIME - Manage all your links in one place [5]. The App Store link is provided, emphasizing early-access, no-cost lifetime access for adopters [5].
Promo pricing and lifetime deals are reshaping Mac/iOS app adoption. Watch how users respond as more startups test growth levers beyond traditional paid tiers.
References
Pomidor: The Free App with "Subscription" - $0.99/month
Pomidor iOS timer app updating with free features, Pro subscription, new themes, widgets, analytics; users discuss pricing and opinions online
View source[$59.99->Free for 1 year] Captr: The AI Screenshot Organizer (Special 1-Year Premium for Reddit!)
Captr iOS app provides AI screenshot organization; free year premium; users request features and report bulk-select glitches such as dupes
View source👏Hive5 is live! Lifetime Free access & credits for early users
Hive5 launches iOS app; lifetime free access for early adopters; renters earn credits; US-first rollout; many regions coming; globally soon.
View source[iOS] [59.99$ -> Free Lifetime] Mindful: Calm Breathing Meditation 2k Downloaded per day
iOS Mindful app free lifetime; breathing guides, four modes; no ads; upcoming premium with discounts; timer feature added.
View sourceFREE LIFETIME - Kutu: Manage your all links one place.
Promotional post for Kutu app; offers free lifetime access; includes App Store download link.
View source