Setapp arrives on iPhone and iPad: What this means for Apple users in 2025

As a longtime Setapp user, I’ve always appreciated how it cuts through the noise and gives me just the tools I need to stay focused and creative on Mac.

Now that same experience is available on iPhone and iPad, and it actually works. With apps like MindNode Classic, NotePlan, and Paste getting iOS updates and syncing across devices, it’s easier than ever to keep your workflow clean and consistent. 

Even better, new iOS apps are being added to Setapp all the time in 2025, and the bar for quality is as high as ever.

How to get started with Setapp for iOS 

If you’re a Setappian-to-be, you can try both Mac and iOS apps with Setapp for 7 days free. 

Here’s what you need to get started: 

• Active Setapp subscription that contains access to iOS
• One available device in your Setapp account (check device availability here)
• QR code scanning app (available natively in the Camera app on iOS 11 and later).

How does pricing work for iOS apps?

I’m keeping things simple: If you’re already on a Setapp plan that includes Mac access, you’re in. iPhone and iPad access are part of the package. No bogus add-ons. Neither do you need to upgrade, pay more, or jump through hoops. 

Just click Get iOS App and scan a QR code from your desktop to link your devices, and boom, your favorite productivity tools are now mobile:

There's a dedicated iOS-only plan if you don't need Mac access and just want Setapp on your iPhone or iPad. For $4.99/month, this mobile plan brings high-quality iOS and iPadOS apps to your mobile devices. 

To sign up, you’ll need to start the process directly from your iPhone or iPad:

1. Go to setapp.com on your iPhone > Sign up.
2. Tap on the iOS plan on Setapp's website from your iOS device.
3. Follow the quick prompts.

Be mindful of your device limits. If your plan has two slots and your Mac and an iPhone are plugged in, you’re maxed out. To add a new iPad or iPhone, you’ll need to free up a spot or upgrade your plan. 

Unlock iOS apps via the Setapp desktop app 

You can activate any iOS app via the Setapp desktop client on Mac. That being said, there’s no dedicated Setapp app to install on your iPhone or iPad; just pick an app from the Mac desktop collection, and Setapp will trigger its installation on your iOS device. All the apps arrive with unlocked functionality, no ads, and no in-app purchases. 

Here’s how you can take Setapp to iPhone or iPad: 

1. Open Setapp on your Mac. 
2. Go to All apps > iOS Apps, and you’ll find your iOS apps all in one spot.

3. Click the app > Get iOS App.
4. Scan the QR code with your iOS device and install the app.
5. Then, click the unlock full version and scan the second QR code.

That’s it. You should now be able to use the app on your iPhone or iPad. For more details on how Setapp for iOS works, check the Setapp support page.

How many iOS devices can I use with Setapp?

You can check the full breakdown on Setapp’s support page, but here’s the gist:

• Mac-only plans don’t include iOS access.
• Mac + iOS plans include access for one Mac and up to four iOS devices.
• Power User plans expand access to four Macs and four iOS devices.
• The dedicated iOS-only plan accommodates up to two iOS devices. 

Apps available with Setapp for iOS right now

Fingers crossed, your favorite app is already on board with Setapp for iOS. If not, no worries, new arrivals are coming soon. Here are some of the apps you can unlock on your iPhone or iPad as of now: 

• Ulysses
• SQLPro Studio
• Taskheat
• MindNode Classic
• Paste
• 2Do
• PDF Search
• ClearVPN 
• NotePlan
• Dropshare, and more.

This is just the beginning. More apps are expected to roll out in 2025. Setapp is building an ecosystem where each app pulls its weight and earns its spot, no filler allowed.

To explore what’s live today, just open your Setapp Mac app > All Apps > iOS Apps. 

Alternatively, you can visit setapp.com > All Apps > iOS Apps.

Setapp as a multi-platform solution 

With new apps joining every week, Setapp has grown a few sizes over the past years (260+ Mac, iOS, and web apps, and they’re still growing).

The whole idea is simple: One subscription, endless flow. You don’t have to hunt for mobile alternatives or juggle separate app purchases. Setapp bridges that gap, so your workflow follows you from couch to coffee shop to desktop.

And the best part? You’re not charged extra for the privilege. The same plan that powers your Mac also unlocks iOS and web apps. No add-ons. No surprise fees. Just one plan, and your whole digital life clicks into place.

So if you’re tired of piecing together your workflow with patchy tools and disconnected platforms, Setapp on iPhone and iPad might be the solution you didn’t know you were waiting for.