Introduction
Once an app is published and available on the App Store, it cannot be retroactively switched to a pre-order status. The pre-order option is only available before the app’s first release.
Pre-Order Eligibility
- Only unpublished apps are eligible for pre-order.
- The pre-order setup must occur before submitting the app for its initial release.
- Once an app is approved and listed on the App Store, the pre-order option is no longer available.
For more details, please see link below:
https://help.apple.com/app-store-connect/#/dev44877b669
https://developer.apple.com/app-store/pre-orders/
Troubleshooting & FAQs
Q: I set up my app for release, but I want to offer it for pre-order instead. What can I do?
A: If the app hasn’t been approved or released yet, you can cancel the release and enable pre-order via App Store Connect. However, this must be done before it becomes available on the App Store.
Q: Will rebranding or changing the bundle ID let me offer it as pre-order again?
A: Only if you create an entirely new app listing with a new bundle ID. This is treated as a new submission and may qualify for pre-order if not published yet.