How Alpenglow Uses App Clips
Alpenglow has had an App Clip since 2020, allowing users to share Sunrise and Sunset Forecasts with friends and family via a URL. When opened on iOS (from Messages, Safari or Camera), the link presents the App Clip sheet, making it easy to preview the app without downloading it. Many other apps use similar share flows, enabling users to interact with content before committing to a full install.
Want to try this for yourself? Scan this App Clip Code with your iOS device to view the prediction for Apple Park's next sunset.
Scan to try an App Clip
App Clips were introduced in iOS 14 (2020), but they remain relatively rare. While I’ve seen them used for things like parking payments and ordering food, overall adoption has been low.
A couple of years ago, I decided to create enamel pins for Alpenglow to hand out at conferences. Rather than stopping there, I added a printed card from Moo featuring the app name and an App Clip Code on the back.
Scanning the App Clip Code opens the App Clip sheet, prompting the user to tap View. From there, they’re introduced to the Alpenglow App Clip with a fun message: they’ve crossed paths with me, and all they got was a pin! They also receive an extended free trial offer code, adding a little extra value to the interaction.
I’ve handed out Alpenglow pins at Deep Dish Swift, iOSDevUK, and some Apple Developer Center events. The App Clip Code on the back is usually a surprise, and the most common reaction I get is:
“I’ve never used an App Clip before.”
The first iteration of the pin’s card had an App Clip Code that was a bit too small, requiring the pin to be removed for successful scanning. For the next batch, I increased the code’s size so it can be scanned while the pin remains attached.
I could also use a QR code since Alpenglow is available on both iOS and Android. A QR code could direct users to a link that offers the App Clip alongside an Android-specific flow. However, while App Clip Codes look better, they aren’t as widely recognized as QR codes are.
I'm now playing around with some personal merch with App Clips on the front and back. So even if you don't interact and get a pin then you can scan the code. At conferences this can be adjusted to prompt you to say hello and get some swag.
Have you come across any interesting use cases for App Clips? Share your thoughts an examples on Bluesky or Mastodon.