Creating APNs Auth Key for MemberPress iOS App

An APNs (Apple Push Notification service) Auth Key enables iOS app push notification delivery securely and at scale. A single reusable .p8 key simplifies renewal management and supports both Test and Release builds. This guide explains how to generate an APN Auth key in Apple Developer and configure the MemberPress App to use it.

Understanding APNs Auth Key

APNs Auth Key provides authentication for push notification delivery to iOS devices.

Single key reusability eliminates multiple certificate management requirements. One APN's key supports all app variants and environments simultaneously.

Security enhancement uses token-based authentication instead of certificate-based methods. Token-based authentication provides improved security while simplifying key management.

Renewal simplification removes annual certificate renewal requirements. APNs' keys remain valid indefinitely unless manually revoked.

Universal support enables push notifications for Test and Release builds. Single key configuration works across all app build types.

Scalable delivery handles high-volume notification distribution efficiently. APNs' key authentication scales with notification demand.

Generating APNs Auth Key

APNs key generation creates authentication credentials for the push notification service in the Apple Developer account.

1. Log in to Apple Developer at developer.apple.com and click Account.
2. Select Certificates, Identifiers & Profiles from the account menu.
3. In the sidebar, click Keys.
4. Click the + button to create a new key.
5. Enter a descriptive name in the Key Name field.
6. Under Key Services, check Apple Push Notifications service (APNs).
7. Click Continue to proceed to registration.
8. Click Register to create the APNs key.
9. Click Download to save the .p8 file and store it securely.

Note: Save the Key ID displayed next to your new key. You will need both the .p8 file and the Key ID in the next step.

Configuring MemberPress App with APNs Key

APNs' key configuration enables push notification functionality by uploading authentication credentials to WordPress.

1. In WordPress, go to Dashboard > MemberPress App > Settings > Integrations > iOS Push Notifications.
2. Click Upload APNs Key.
3. Select the downloaded .p8 file.
4. Enter your Key ID from Apple Developer and Team ID found under Apple Developer > Membership.
5. Click Save Changes.

Note: Ensure your Bundle ID matches the one registered in Apple Developer.

Testing APNs Key

APNs' key testing verifies proper push notification delivery configuration and functionality.

1. Request a Test Notification in WP Admin by navigating to Dashboard > MemberPress App > Push Notifications and send a test alert.
   
2. Verify Delivery by confirming the notification appears on both your iOS Test and Release app installs.