Apple introduces a cheaper option for App Store subscriptions

· business · Source ↗

TLDR

  • Apple is formalizing monthly billing tied to a 12-month commitment, letting developers offer lower monthly rates for predictable revenue.

Key Facts

  • Customers pay monthly but commit to a full 12-month auto-renewing term; cancellation stops future charges only after the term ends.
  • The option will not be available in the United States or Singapore at launch; Apple cited no reason, but U.S. App Store litigation with Epic Games is ongoing.
  • Developers configure the new subscription type in App Store Connect; it requires iOS 26.5, iPadOS 26.5, macOS Tahoe 26.5, tvOS 26.5, or visionOS 26.5, shipping in May.
  • Apple will surface payment structure details, cancellation terms, and remaining payment counts under Apple Account, plus send renewal reminders.

Why It Matters

  • Apple is codifying a pricing pattern developers were already using informally, and adding display policies to prevent misleading cost presentation.
  • Because subscriptions auto-renew, customers who forget to cancel before renewal could be locked into another 12-month commitment.

Sarah Perez, TechCrunch · 2026-04-28 · Read the original

Related coverage