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About app distribution

After you've added features to your app, you need to decide how to distribute it to merchants.

The way you choose to distribute your app depends on its purpose and your audience. You can't change the distribution method after you select it, so make sure that you understand the different capabilities and requirements of each type.


Anchor to Capabilities and requirementsCapabilities and requirements

The following table shows the capabilities and requirements that are associated with each distribution method:

Distribution modelNumber of storesApp typeAuthorization or authentication methodApproval requiredLimitations
Public distributionCan be installed on multiple Shopify storesPublic
  • If embedded, token exchange and session tokens
  • If not embedded, authorization code grant
  • YesMust sync certain data with Shopify
    Custom distributionInstalled on a single Shopify store, on multiple stores that belong to the same Plus organization or any transfer-disabled development storesCustom
  • If embedded, token exchange and session tokens
  • If not embedded, authorization code grant
  • NoCan't use the Billing API to charge merchants
    Shopify adminInstalled on a single Shopify storeCustomAuthenticate in the Shopify adminNo
  • Can't use Shopify App Bridge to display as an embedded app
  • Can't use app extensions
  • Can't use the Billing API to charge merchants
  • Anchor to Requesting a content size limit exceptionRequesting a content size limit exception

    Theme app extensions are subject to file and content size limits. If your app uses custom distribution, or your app has been granted Built for Shopify status in the Shopify App Store, then you can request an exception to the 100 KB Liquid size limit for a theme app extension. File an exemption request using this form.

    Increasing your app's Liquid size could potentially impact its performance. Regular monitoring and optimization is advised.


    Anchor to Deprecated app typesDeprecated app types

    The following app types can no longer be created:

    • Private apps: Deprecated as of January 2022. A private app was a type of app that one merchant could install directly on their store. If you want to create an app specifically for one merchant's store, then you can create a custom app instead. As of January 20, 2023, all private apps have been automatically migrated and converted to custom apps.
    • Unpublished apps: Deprecated as of December 9, 2019. An unpublished app was a type of public app that one or many merchants could install and had all the same functionality as other public apps. However, the app didn't require any approval from Shopify.

    Learn how to select a distribution method in the Partner Dashboard.


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