Apple has unveiled a new subscription option for the App Store that enables users to pay monthly while committing to a 12-month plan. This option provides access to discounted annual pricing without requiring an upfront payment.
Global Rollout in May 2026
The Cupertino-based tech giant confirmed that the feature will roll out globally in May 2026 with the release of iOS 26.5, iPadOS 26.5, macOS Tahoe 26.5, tvOS 26.5, and visionOS 26.5. However, it will not be available in the United States and Singapore.
“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. People can cancel their subscription at any time, which will prevent the subscription from renewing after they’ve completed their agreed-to payments to fulfill their commitment,” Apple said in a statement.
How the New Subscription Option Works
The new subscription model allows developers to offer annual pricing spread across monthly installments. Users can cancel the annual subscription at any time, but the subscription will not renew once the 12-month commitment ends. Additionally, Apple will display the number of completed and remaining payments in the Apple Account settings, and subscribers will receive email and optional push notifications ahead of renewal dates.
“To provide transparency, people can easily view the number of completed and remaining payments for the subscription in their Apple Account. Apple will also send email and, if opted in, push notifications ahead of their renewal date to remind them of their upcoming purchase,” Apple added.
Benefits for Users and Developers
For consumers, this option makes premium apps and services more affordable and manageable, especially in markets where upfront annual payments are less feasible. For developers, it provides a way to secure longer commitments while reducing churn, potentially boosting adoption of premium apps.
