For years, developers used Private Apps to connect Shopify stores with external systems or to add store-specific features. But Shopify officially deprecated Private Apps in 2022, and by early 2023, they were completely removed.

So, what’s next? The answer is clear: Shopify Custom Apps.

In this guide, we’ll explain what Shopify Custom Apps are, why they replaced Private Apps, and when you should choose a Custom App versus a Public App.

Why Shopify Deprecated Private Apps

Private Apps were once the easiest way to create store-specific integrations, but they had drawbacks:

  • Relied on static API keys → security risk if exposed.
  • Required manual installation → merchants had to paste keys into code.
  • Had limited permission controls compared to modern apps.

To solve these issues, Shopify introduced Custom Apps as a safer and more scalable option.

What Are Shopify Custom Apps?

A Shopify Custom App is the modern alternative to Private Apps. Like Private Apps, they are built for a single Shopify store, but with enhanced security, easy installation, and better developer tools.

Key Benefits of Shopify Custom Apps

  • Store-specific: Designed for just one merchant.
  • Secure authentication: Uses OAuth instead of static API keys.
  • Easy installation: One-click setup inside the Shopify Admin.
  • Scoped permissions: Merchants grant only the access needed.
  • Flexible integrations: Perfect for ERP, CRM, or POS connections.

Custom Apps vs Private Apps vs Public Apps

Here’s a simple comparison:

When to Use a Shopify Custom App

Choose a Shopify Custom App if:

  • You need to integrate a store with internal tools like ERP, CRM, or billing systems.
  • You’re building a unique feature that won’t be reused across multiple merchants.
  • You want a fast setup without Shopify’s App Store review.
  • You’re replacing an old Private App.

When to Use a Shopify Public App

Pick a Public App if:

  • You want your app available to multiple stores.
  • You plan to list it on the Shopify App Store for monetization.
  • You want to build a SaaS business on Shopify’s ecosystem.

How to Create a Shopify Custom App (Step by Step)

  1. Log in to Shopify Admin.
  2. Go to Apps > Develop Apps for Your Store.
  3. Enable app development (if first time).
  4. Click Create an App and provide details.
  5. Set API scopes → choose which store data your app can access.
  6. Install the app in one click.
  7. Use the generated OAuth tokens for API calls.

Final Thoughts

  • Private Apps are gone.
  • The modern replacement is Shopify Custom Apps.
  • For single-store solutions, Custom Apps are best.
  • For multi-store SaaS products, build a Public App.

By migrating to Shopify Custom Apps, you not only secure your store but also align with Shopify’s future-ready app ecosystem.

If you would have built a Private App before, today you build a Custom App instead.

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Shopify App Development

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