This week, Apple introduced a new option for developers who offer auto-renewable subscriptions and it could be cheaper for you in the long run. The company announced a new subscription option that lets you pay for auto-renew subscriptions on a monthly basis.
However, you have to commit to a 12-month plan. In theory, this will allow developers to offer discounted rates while guaranteeing more predictable long-term revenue.
The move aligns with how many developers already utilize annual subscriptions, whether via the app or their own websites. In general, developers offer 12-month subscriptions that are slightly cheaper than the month-to-month options.
Apple says that subscribers will be able to view the "number of completed and remaining payments for the subscription in their Apple Account." The App Store will also send emails, and if turned on, push notifications to remind people of upcoming renewal dates.
It's possible this new option could lock people into auto-renewed subscriptions if they miss the cancellation window. But Apple says customers can cancel at any time.
No U.S. at launch
Unfortunately, it might take a minute before U.S. App Store subscribers will be able to utilize this new option. TechCrunch points out that Apple is still in litigation with Epic Games over how Apple charges subscriptions and the cut Apple takes in the App Store.
The multi-year legal battle is likely headed to the Supreme Court, if the judicial body agrees to hear the case. As it stands now, Apple's 27% fee has been rejected by courts, but this won't be settled until either the Supreme Court hears the case or rejects it upholding the current Ninth Circuit decision. Apple is likely waiting for the case to be finalized before moving ahead with the new options.
