Apple introduces monthly plans with hidden 12-month commitment: What it offers
Follow UsThe feature will roll out globally in May 2026 with updates like iOS 26.5, but will not be available in the US and Singapore initially.
Users can cancel anytime, but the subscription will continue until the 12-month commitment is completed.
Apple will add transparency tools, showing remaining payments and sending alerts before renewals.
Apple has officially introduced a new subscription payment option for the App Store which allows uses to pay in monthly installments while committing to full year plan. The feature is set to roll out globally in May 2026 along with upcoming software updates including the iOS 26.5, iPadOS 26.5, macOS Tahoe 26.5, tvOS 26.5 and visionOS 26.5. However, the company has confirmed that the option will not be available in the United States and Singapore at launch.
SurveyThe new system is designed to give users access to discontinued annual subscription pricing without requiring a large upfront payment. The developers will be able to offer yearly plans that are billed monthly. With this, the company aims to make premium apps and services more accessible. Although users can cancel their subscriptions at any time, the cancellations will only prevent renewals after the 12-month commitment period is completed.
“Today, we’re introducing a new way that people can pay for your auto-renewable subscriptions on the App Store: monthly subscriptions with a 12-month commitment. This new payment option allows you to offer subscribers more affordable options,” the company added in its blog post.
Apple said it will also introduce additional transparency tools for subscribers. Users will be able to track the number of payments they have completed and how many are remaining directly within their Apple Account settings. In addition, the company will send email alerts and optional push notifications ahead of renewal dates to keep users informed about upcoming charges.
The move is expected to benefit both consumers and developers. For users, it lowers the barrier to entry for high-cost subscriptions, particularly in price-sensitive markets where paying annually in one go may not be feasible. For developers, it offers a way to secure longer-term commitments, which could help improve retention rates and reduce subscription churn.
