License

Direct License activation, two-Mac seats, vs App Store subscriptions

Purpose

Direct Pro is a License. App Store Pro is an Apple subscription / Lifetime transaction. Mixing the two when moving Macs leads to “seats full” or a Restore that does nothing.

Settings → Pro → License: device list and unlink

Screenshot TODO · images/screenshots/subscribe/license.webp

Two grant types

	Mac App Store	Direct
Pay	Apple / StoreKit	Site checkout
Proof	Apple subscription / Lifetime	License
New Mac	Restore + same Apple ID	Unlink old device, then activate
Devices	Apple’s rules	Lifetime and similar: 2 Macs personal use

Direct: the License usually binds this device after purchase. Settings → Pro → License shows status and devices. Unlink to free a seat. A full seat list blocks Pro on a new Mac.

Status	Meaning
Valid	Pro works
Expired	Monthly / yearly not renewed
Seats full	Device cap reached
Unlinked	This Mac no longer authorized

Direct offline: entitlements restore locally at launch, with periodic silent checks. Failures or expiry ask you to re-verify.

App Store users do not manage a License. Same Apple ID + Restore.

Notes

Receipts do not cross channels.

Unlink the old Mac only after you are done with it, or both machines can drop Pro.

Related

• Purchase
• Plans