appID

appID, or application identifier, is a unique value assigned to a software application by a platform, service, or developer to identify that app in APIs, dashboards, and configuration settings. It is used to reference the app in authentication, analytics, licensing, and integration workflows, and may form part of a larger identity or provisioning system.

The form and semantics of an appID vary by ecosystem. Some use numeric IDs, others use alphanumeric strings or globally unique identifiers (GUIDs). In many mobile and desktop ecosystems, the appID is tied to the package or bundle identifier and to a developer account. It often serves as the stable reference for provisioning, entitlements, and service bindings, while not itself acting as a secret credential.

Common platform examples include:

- Apple platforms (iOS and macOS): App IDs are managed in the developer account and distinguish explicit IDs from wildcard IDs. They work with provisioning profiles and entitlements to control features such as push notifications and iCloud access.

- Android and Google ecosystems: The app ID typically corresponds to the applicationId (often the package name) used in Google Play Console, Firebase, and various Google services.

- Steam and similar app ecosystems: An AppID uniquely identifies a game or app within the platform’s catalog and API.

- Cloud and identity services: When registering an application for APIs, the platform may issue an Application ID or Client ID (a GUID) used in OAuth flows and service permissions.

Because appIDs are generally not secrets, they are commonly embedded in client configurations and publicly referenced. However, accompanying credentials (such as client secrets or API keys) must remain confidential and are managed separately. In practice, appIDs serve as stable anchors for associating an application with services, permissions, and analytics across the platform’s ecosystem.