Shopify is increasingly being used to sell SaaS products and software licenses, not just physical goods. Whether you’re offering monthly access to a tool, downloadable software, or digital license keys — Shopify can handle it with the right setup.
Here’s how to build a SaaS/subscription commerce model using Shopify:
1. Subscription Billing Apps (Free & Paid)
To support recurring software billing:
- Appstle Subscriptions (Free + Paid) — Recurring SaaS plans, onboarding flows, and customer dashboards.
- PayWhirl Subscription Payments (Free + Paid) — Stripe-integrated, great for startups.
- Recharge (Paid) — For high-scale SaaS or tiered plans.
2. Deliver Digital Products or Keys
Use apps like:
- SendOwl (Free + Paid) — Automate software key delivery, file download limits, and license expiration.
- FetchApp (Free plan available) — For basic digital downloads.
- Sky Pilot — Ideal for gated video, course, and license-based access.
3. Customer Dashboards & Self-Service Licensing
Use Shopify apps or build portals where customers can:
- See their active plan
- View/download license keys
- Upgrade/downgrade tiers
- Pause/cancel subscriptions
4. Recurring Payment Gateway Support
- Shopify Payments (Stripe) — Works with most subscription apps.
- PayPal Express — Recurring supported when integrated with app logic.
- Razorpay Subscriptions (India) — For recurring INR billing.
5. Software Licensing API Integration
If you generate license keys or tokens:
- Use Mechanic to auto-generate and send keys on new orders
- Integrate your license API (e.g., Keygen, Gumroad, proprietary tools) via webhooks or Zapier
6. Email Automation and Onboarding
Use:
- Klaviyo or Omnisend for onboarding sequences and renewal notices
- MailerLite or ConvertKit for SaaS welcome flows and product education
Final Thoughts
Selling SaaS and digital licenses on Shopify is easier than ever in 2025. From subscription billing to automated key delivery and custom onboarding, Shopify gives you the building blocks to scale a software business.
Need help setting up a SaaS storefront on Shopify? Connect with CommerceBolt.